A report in the Daily Mail says a U.K. study found that drinking beetroot juice every day may help lower blood pressure.
Researchers at The Barts and The London Medical School found that a surprisingly small amount, about one cup daily, may cut readings by about 7 percent.
The story notes that an estimated 16 million people in the U.K. have high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. The condition is a pervasive problem in America, too. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 67 million American adults have high blood pressure, amounting to one in every three American adults.
Some blood pressure medications may carry possible health risks of their own.
For example, two clinical drug trials have prompted a U.S. Food and Drug Administration investigation into whether the blood pressure drug Benicar increases the risk of heart-related deaths. A recent Mayo Clinic report has also linked Benicar to stomach problems including chronic diarrhea, vomiting, intestinal inflammation and weight loss.
The Daily Mail story says that the beneficial effects of beetroot juice may be due to its high levels of nitrates. High-nitrate foods trigger a series of chemical reactions in the blood, which can increase oxygen in areas of the body which are specifically lacking supply.
The story says that lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and reductions in salt and alcohol, may also control blood pressure.
You should consult with a doctor if you have any ongoing symptoms or health concerns, and before making any changes in medication. You should also consult with a lawyer if you have injuries connected with Benicar.
See the story here:
See more about the study here:
https://www.qmul.ac.uk/media/news/items/smd/95990.html
