Globally, more than a billion people suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure), putting them at greater risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) such as heart attack and stroke.
CVDs are the leading cause of death worldwide—in the United States, one person dies from CVD every 36 seconds.
In a recent study from the University of South Australia, scientists found a daily dose of yogurt could be the next go-to food for people with high blood pressure.
They examined the associations between yogurt intake, blood pressure and cardiovascular risk factors, finding that yogurt is associated with lower blood pressure for those with hypertension.
The researcher says this study provides new evidence that connects yogurt with positive blood pressure outcomes for hypertensive people.
In the study, the team found dairy foods, especially yogurt, may be capable of reducing blood pressure.
This is because dairy foods contain a range of micronutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium, all of which are involved in the regulation of blood pressure.
Yogurt is especially interesting because it also contains bacteria that promote the release of proteins which lowers blood pressure.
This study showed for people with elevated blood pressure, even small amounts of yogurt were associated with lower blood pressure.
And for those who consumed yogurt regularly, the results were even stronger, with blood pressure readings nearly seven points lower than those who did not consume yogurt.
The study was conducted on 915 adults. Habitual yogurt consumption was measured using a food frequency questionnaire.
High blood pressure was defined as being greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg (a normal blood pressure level is less than 120/80 mmHg).
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about how diets could help lower high blood pressure, and 3 grams of omega-3s a day keep high blood pressure at bay.
For more information about nutrition, please see recent studies about a major cause of high blood pressure, and results showing cinnamon could help lower high blood pressure.
The study was published in International Dairy Journal and conducted by Dr. Alexandra Wade et al.
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