Munching on a few of your favorite foods might lower your blood pressure, according to the results of a recent scientific analysis.
Researchers at the University of Surrey in the U.K. found that eating foods containing naturally occurring compounds known as flavan-3-ols is associated with lower blood pressure and healthier blood vessels.
Flavan-3-ols can be found in:
- Cocoa
- Tea
- Apples
- Grapes
Researchers analyzed data from 145 studies and found that consumption of foods with flavan-3-ols is associated with decreased blood pressure readings, especially in those with elevated blood pressure.
They also noted that the impact can be significant, sometimes rivaling that of medications.
In addition, eating foods with flavan-3-ols is associated with improved functioning of the inner lining of blood vessels — known as the endothelium. The researchers say this boost to health occurs independently of blood pressure changes and could have a broad impact on the overall health of the circulatory system.
In a summary of the findings, Christian Heiss — a professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Surrey — says the findings suggest that making “enjoyable dietary changes” might boost heart health:
“Incorporating small amounts of commonly consumed foods like tea, apples, dark chocolate or cocoa powder into a daily balanced diet could provide beneficial amounts of flavan-3-ols.”
The analysis was published in a scientific journal of the European Society of Cardiology.
For more insights into how your diet can improve your blood pressure, check out “4 Foods That May Help Lower Your Blood Pressure Naturally.”
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