Changes in blood pressure and body weight over ten years in men selected for glucose intolerance

Relative changes in body weight and blood pressure over ten years of observation are reported in men recruited for a trial of therapy in relation to the natural history of glucose intolerance. Half were recommended a diet restricting carbohydrate to 120 g daily (diet group) and half were recommended to 'limit use of table sugar' (no diet). In both groups average weight and blood pressure fell over the 12 to 18 months after treatment allocation, the decline being proportionately greater for both variables in the diet group. Subsequently, average weight remained constant up to the end of the ten year study, but blood pressure levels rose, though remaining below baseline levels in the diet group. Statistical analysis of changes in blood pressure and weight between initial (pre-treatment) and third follow-up visit measurement indicated that the proportional change in blood pressure was related principally to change in weight, with little relation to initial level of blood pressure. Although a reduction in weight results in a fall in blood pressure, it does not necessarily prevent a subsequent age related increase in blood pressure.