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Type/Amount of Fat Intake Affects Blood Pressure
Category: Diet and Nutrition
A great number of studies have supported the fact that fat intake effects cardiovascular disease risk. Altering the diet from one high in saturated fats to more monounsaturated fats lowers lipid profiles. This is a protective effect. Most studies have not examined the effects of saturated versus monounsaturated fats on blood pressure.
Researchers in Denmark examined the effect of diet on blood pressure in healthy subjects. Each participant was randomized to one of two groups. The first received a diet high in saturated fats, while the second received a diet high in monounsaturated fats. The addition of omega 3 fatty acids to each of the diets was also studied to determine any effect on blood pressure. Each of the 162 subjects followed the study diet for 3 months. Blood pressure was monitored prior to study onset and after completion.
The diet high in monounsaturated fats resulted in a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure compared to diet high saturated fats. Overall, individuals had lower blood pressure on the monounsaturated fat diet compared to saturated fats, but the results were less significant for systolic blood pressure. The addition of fish oil to the diet did not have any effect on blood pressure in either group.
An interested point was found in relation to fat intake. It seems that diets high in fat (>37%) regardless of fat type (monounsaturated versus saturated fats) negate any protective effect observed on blood pressure. So those who switch to a diet high in monounsaturated fats, but continue to eat a high fat diet will not see a decrease in blood pressure.
The quality of fats in the diet has a favorable effect on blood pressure as well as lipid status. Individuals with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease should consider dietary changes. As well as addressing the quality of fats, the overall quantity of fat in the diet should be addressed to provide the greatest benefit.
Posted by Kristopher Foster on September 8, 2013 11:00 AM
