Healthy Living Tips From
Can bacteria lower your blood pressure?
The secret to lower blood pressure may be inside your refrigerator right now.
New research shows that regular intake of probiotics – live bacteria naturally occurring in certain foods that are beneficial for
digestive health – may help lower blood pressure. Found in livecultured yogurt and fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut or
kimchi, probiotics are also added to some high-end dark chocolates and are available as supplements.
Researchers reviewed the probiotic consumption of more than
540 adults and found the greatest benefit among those with high
blood pressure who consumed probiotics for more than two
months. They also noted that probiotics with multiple types of
bacteria appeared to be more beneficial than those with just one
type of bacteria.
A study presented at a recent AHA scientific meeting found that
a strain of probiotics found in dairy called Lactobacillus reuteri
lowered LDL levels in participants by nearly 12 percent more than
the group taking a placebo, and overall cholesterol was lowered
by 9 percent.
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While more research is needed on the link between high blood
pressure and probiotics, the study reinforces the role of “good”
bacteria in a healthy diet. When shopping for yogurt with
probiotic benefits, look for “live active cultures” on the packaging.
Not only is yogurt beneficial for digestive health
(and possibly blood pressure), it’s also a
good source of vitamins, minerals
and calcium.