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Nutraceuticals for blood pressure control
Cesare R Sirtori1, Anna Arnoldi2, Arrigo F G Cicero3
1a Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences , University of Milan , Milano , Italy.
Annals of Medicine
|September 13, 2015
Summary
Certain nutraceuticals, like potassium and cocoa flavonoids, show promise for lowering blood pressure. Further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of various supplements for hypertension management.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Cardiovascular Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Large nutritional interventions like DASH and Mediterranean diets impact blood pressure.
- Numerous studies explore nutraceuticals for blood pressure-lowering effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence for nutraceuticals' effects on blood pressure.
- To identify well-supported and under-researched nutraceuticals for hypertension.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of studies on various nutraceuticals.
- Analysis of evidence supporting specific minerals, vitamins, foods, and other compounds.
Main Results:
- Strong evidence supports potassium, L-arginine, vitamins C and D, cocoa flavonoids, beetroot juice, probiotics, coenzyme Q10, melatonin, aged garlic extract, and coffee.
- Limited evidence exists for green tea, flaxseed, and resveratrol.
- The active components in proteins/peptides require further identification.
Conclusions:
- Several nutraceuticals demonstrate potential for blood pressure management.
- Further clinical research is necessary to establish cost-effectiveness and risk-benefit ratios for widespread use.
- Long-term safety data and identification of specific active components are crucial.
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