Vegetarian Diets Can Help Decrease Blood Pressure Levels

Today, a published article mentioned the prevalence of heart disease and the detrimental effects it has on both men and women in the United States. It stated that scientists are still tirelessly searching for answers, and yet another has been found.

Your diet is perhaps the most important determinant for the risk of heart disease. Physical activity and stress management are also important, but eating right can help your body function properly and give you essential nutrients to live a healthy life. Scientists from Japan and the United States have conducted an extensive study and found that vegetarian diets lower blood pressure most effectively.

In the study, the scientists examined 39 high-quality hypertension studies from 18 countries totaling 21,000 participants. They found that those who consumed less meat had more consistent and healthy blood pressure levels. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hypertension (the result of high blood pressure) is the leading risk factor for stroke and heart disease.

Both systolic and diastolic blood pressures saw significantly lower numbers in the participants who consumed mainly vegetarian diets. The systolic blood pressure (when the heart is contracting) was found to have a 6.9-point drop, and diastolic blood pressure (when the heart is resting in between beats) was associated with a 4.7-point drop. Doctors say that an average 5-point drop in systolic blood pressure across the United States would create a nine percent decrease in heart disease, per this Live Science article.

Dr. Yoko Yokoyama of the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center in Osaka Japan mentioned in the study that those who switch to vegetables, beans, and whole grains and lay off daily meat consumption could see the most success in hypertension decreases. Additionally, these diet recommendations are associated with those who suffer from diabetes and obesity. A more vegetable-oriented diet will reduce sodium and saturated fat, which are two catalysts for heart disease and obesity; perhaps two of the biggest health concerns in the United States.

To read more about this study as well as the positive effects of vegetarian diets, visit this Live Science article.