Not only does a healthy gut contribute to effective digestion, but the long list of benefits includes improved heart and brain health and a more robust immune system. Now, a link has been found between balanced microbiota levels and lower blood pressure.
Keep reading to find out more about what this study found and the types of food that will help you benefit from this discovery.
Link Between Gut Health and Lower Blood Pressure Study
A group of epidemiology, biology, and public health researchers discovered an interesting connection. The study, published in the Hypertension journal, analyzed 904 participants to examine how gut microbiome arrangement relates to blood pressure. It was designed to assess how foods that contain flavonoids affect these health metrics.
What Are Flavonoids?
They are a group of natural substances found in many vegetables, fruits, grains, roots, flowers, bark, herbs, tea, chocolate, and wine. They’re well known for their positive effects on general health and preventing illnesses, including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and many others.
Study Findings
Participants’ consumption of apples, pears, berries, and red wine throughout the study was analyzed. The researcher’s findings concluded that 15.2% of microbial factors responsible for clinically significant lower systolic blood pressure came from flavonoid-rich foods in the diet.
The study’s co-author Aedín Cassidy, Ph.D., said what we consume is critical in shaping our gut microbiome. He elaborated that in contrast to other food elements, flavonoids are mainly absorbed in the gut.
Increase Your Flavonoids Intake for Gut Health and Low Blood Pressure
The new study essentially confirmed that incorporating flavonoid-rich food into your diet boosts gut health and decreases blood pressure. Examples of such foods include berries, red cabbage, onions, tea, red wine, and dark chocolate.
