Does a high-protein diet affect the reduction of high blood pressure?
A high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a widespread health issue today that affects many people’s lives. The increase in blood pressure not only has negative effects on the cardiovascular system but can also lead to various organ damage in the long term. Experts have long been researching how to reduce blood pressure through natural methods, and many believe that nutrition plays a significant role in this process.
One of the most commonly suggested methods is to reduce salt intake, but recent research has also highlighted the importance of protein intake. Proteins are not only essential for muscle building and recovery but may also play a key role in regulating blood pressure. Researchers examined how regular daily protein consumption affects blood pressure, paying particular attention to different protein sources.
The study involved 352 adults who already exhibited high blood pressure. The participants followed different diets, during which researchers monitored blood pressure changes and assessed the effects of various protein sources.
The aim and method of the research
A medical group in New Orleans, led by Jiang He, conducted long-term studies on the relationship between protein consumption and blood pressure. The aim of the research was to explore how daily protein intake impacts blood pressure, particularly for those already struggling with early-stage hypertension. During the study, participants followed three different diets, which were randomly assigned to ensure accurate comparisons of the effects of the various diets.
Among the diets, one was a traditional carbohydrate-rich diet, while the other two included lean milk-derived and soy-based proteins. Throughout the research, participants consumed 40 grams of carbohydrates daily, which examined the effects of proteins alongside carbohydrate-rich foods. The experiment lasted a total of eight weeks, with three-week breaks between each diet to accurately assess the effects.
The results of the research
During the study, participants’ blood pressure was continuously monitored, and the results confirmed the positive effects of protein intake. Compared to carbohydrate-supplemented diets, protein-rich diets significantly reduced systolic blood pressure. Diastolic values also decreased, but these changes were less pronounced.
It is important to note that the difference between milk-derived and soy-based proteins was not measurable, indicating that both sources have similarly beneficial effects on blood pressure. This finding reinforces that protein intake is independent of the source, and both plant-based and animal-derived proteins can contribute to lowering blood pressure.
The role of protein intake in the treatment of hypertension
Although the results of the research are promising, experts emphasize that protein intake alone is not sufficient for treating high blood pressure. Doctors suggest that increasing protein consumption can complement existing treatments and help manage the disease more effectively. Researchers recommend that patients struggling with high blood pressure consider replacing at least part of their carbohydrate intake with lean proteins.
This approach is not only beneficial for blood pressure but can also play a role in improving overall health. Proteins are essential nutrients that contribute to maintaining muscle mass and recovery, thus supporting gut health and the immune system alongside hypertension management.
The results of the research provide new insights into the relationship between nutrition and blood pressure and underscore the importance of a balanced diet in managing hypertension.
