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The liquorice effect on the RAAS differs between the genders
Helga A Sigurjonsdottir1, Magnus Axelson, Gudmundur Johannsson
1Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Sahlgrenska, Göteborg, Sweden.
Blood Pressure
|July 26, 2006
Summary
Men show a greater reduction in aldosterone levels after consuming liquorice than women, regardless of blood pressure (BP) levels or hypertension status. This gender-specific response to liquorice was not previously documented.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Liquorice consumption elevates blood pressure (BP) more significantly in individuals with essential hypertension (HT) compared to healthy subjects.
- Liquorice induces pseudohyperaldosteronism by inhibiting 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 and suppresses the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the differential effects of liquorice on BP, RAAS, and aldosterone levels between genders and in individuals with and without hypertension.
- To explore the influence of gender on the BP response to liquorice.
Main Methods:
- A 4-week daily consumption of 100g liquorice (150mg glycyrrhetinic acid) by patients with HT (8 men, 3 women) and healthy controls (13 men, 12 women).
- Evaluation of blood and urine samples, and BP before and after liquorice consumption, and after cessation.
Main Results:
- Serum aldosterone levels showed a significant difference in relative change between genders (p < 0.02), with men exhibiting a greater response than women.
- No significant difference in aldosterone response was observed between hypertensive patients and healthy subjects.
Conclusions:
- Liquorice-induced aldosterone inhibition varies significantly between genders and is independent of baseline blood pressure levels.
- This study highlights a previously unreported gender-specific difference in the endocrine response to liquorice.
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