New study reveals benefits of fruits and vegetables for blood pressure and kidney health

A recent study published in The American Journal of Medicine underscores the health benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. According to the study, such a diet can lower blood pressure, reduce cardiovascular risks, and improve kidney health.

Study Overview

• Health Benefits: Diets high in fruits and vegetables are associated with lower blood pressure, reduced risk of chronic kidney disease, and decreased chances of cardiovascular diseases and related deaths.
• DASH Diet: The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, which emphasizes fruits and vegetables, is recommended for managing hypertension. Despite its proven benefits, it is often under-prescribed and under-used.

Key Findings

• Chronic Conditions: Despite advancements in hypertension treatment, cases of hypertension-related chronic kidney disease and heart disease are rising. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among patients with chronic kidney disease.
• Research Methodology: The study involved 153 participants with hypertension and high levels of urine albumin excretion, a marker of chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular risk. Participants were divided into three groups:
  • Fruits and Vegetables: Added 2-4 cups of fruits and vegetables to their daily diet.
  • Sodium Bicarbonate: Took sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) tablets twice daily.
  • Standard Care: Received standard medical care.
• Results: Both the fruits and vegetables diet and sodium bicarbonate improved kidney health. However, only the fruits and vegetables diet also led to reduced blood pressure and improved cardiovascular risk indicators.

Previous Research

• Animal Studies: Prior studies showed that diets high in animal products, which produce more dietary acid, can harm the kidneys. Conversely, diets rich in fruits and vegetables, which produce less dietary acid, are healthier for the kidneys.
• Human Studies: Similar benefits were observed in human studies, suggesting that fruits and vegetables may benefit both kidney and heart health by reducing dietary acid levels.