High blood pressure (hypertension) is known to increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. About 65 million American adults have high blood pressure. Previous studies suggest that high blood pressure is effectively regulated by a vegetarian diet. Now research reports that a high meat intake increased the risk of high blood pressure in young adults.
The study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, investigated the association of plant foods, dairy and meat products on the risk of high blood pressure. Researchers at various U.S. medical institutions compared the nutrient intake of 4,304 participants, aged 18 to 30, as part of the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study, for 15 years. Food frequency questionnaires obtained from the participants were analyzed to determine nutrient intake.
The researchers found that a high intake of plant foods (including whole grains, refined grains, fruit, vegetables, nuts, or legumes) was linked to improved general health and a lower risk of high blood pressure. However, a high intake of red and processed meat was associated with a higher risk of high blood pressure.
"These findings are consistent with a beneficial effect of plant food intake and an adverse effect of meat intake on blood pressure," the study authors conclude.
REFERENCES:
1. Steffen LM et al. Associations of plant food, dairy product, and meat intakes with 15-y incidence of elevated blood pressure in young black and white adults: the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study. Am J Clin Nutr 2005 Dec;82(6):1169-1177.
Posted by Elaine Gavalas on December 9, 2006 03:46 PM
