Can Probiotics Help Lower Blood Pressure?
Based on a recent review of available studies, the answer seems to be yes.
It probably comes as no surprise that probiotics have been credited with aiding in a lot of different health issues ranging from digestive stuff all the way to weight loss and allergies.
But hearing that it may lower blood pressure was a new one for us!
The proof comes from a recent report issued by researchers in Australia that reviewed a few randomized, controlled studies done on probiotics and blood pressure.
The following results were seen when probiotics were taken for at least 8 weeks and contained at least 10 billion CFU (colony forming units).
The results showed that regular consumption of probiotics (whether through eating yogurt or taking supplements), lowered systolic blood pressure by an average of 3.56 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by an average of 2.38 mm Hg.
That’s compared to a control group that consumed no probiotics.
Even more encouraging, the effects were greatest in people whose blood pressure was 130/85 or higher.
Which means probiotics worked better for those who already had high blood pressure.
Here’s what Jing Sun, one of the researchers had to say about the studies they examined for their review,
“The small collection of studies we looked at suggest regular consumption of probiotics can be part of a healthy lifestyle to help reduce high blood pressure, as well as maintain healthy blood pressure levels. This includes probiotics in yogurt, fermented and sour milk and cheese, and probiotic supplements.”
So what’s the bottom line?
While further studies are needed, it does appear taking probiotics has a positive effect on blood pressure.
This is important as blood pressure, or hypertension is a major factor when it comes to serious cardiovascular issues like strokes and heart attacks.
And anything that people with it can do to lower it should be strongly considered.
If you have high blood pressure, be sure to talk to your doctor about probiotics and their potential use in managing the condition.
Be sure also to check out our list of the 10 best probiotic supplements!
