Beetroot Juice May Lower Seniors’ Blood Pressure: Study Reveals

Beetroot Juice for Blood Pressure Control

You can now listen to Fox News articles! Beetroot juice, known for its high nitrate content, has been associated with beneficial changes in your oral bacterial community.

New Study Highlights Potential Benefits

A recent study on blood pressure suggests that this juice could help lower blood pressure in older adults. Conducted by researchers at the University of Exeter, the study was published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine.

The Experiment

The researchers studied the response of young and older participants to the consumption of beetroot juice. A total of 75 participants, including 39 under age 30 and 36 in their 60s and 70s, underwent two experimental phases over two weeks. The participants consumed nitrate-rich beetroot juice shots daily in one group, while the other group received a placebo. Both groups had a “wash-out period” to reset their systems between the phases.

Understanding the Effect on Oral Bacteria

The research team used bacterial gene sequencing to identify the types of microbes present in the participants’ mouths before and after each treatment. It was found that older adults who drank nitrate-rich beetroot juice had a decrease in harmful mouth bacteria such as Prevotella, which is linked to inflammation, and an increase in helpful bacteria like Neisseria.

The Role of Nitrates in Blood Pressure Control

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, explained that nitrates contribute to lower blood pressure by improving flexibility in blood vessels, reducing resistance, and decreasing inflammation. Participants who started the study with higher blood pressure saw a decrease after consuming the beetroot juice, while those in the placebo group did not experience any change.

Nitrate-Rich Foods for Blood Pressure

According to Siegel, “Foods high in dietary nitrates, such as leafy greens, beets, and lettuce, can help lower blood pressure.” This is because your body converts nitrates to nitric oxide, a key molecule in vascular health that promotes blood vessel dilation and thus reduces blood pressure.

Implications of the Findings

Andy Jones, co-author of the study and a professor at the University of Exeter, stated that the research shows that “nitrate-rich foods alter the oral microbiome in a way that could result in less inflammation and a lowering of blood pressure in older people”.

Further Research Needed

Despite the promising findings, both researchers agree that more research is needed. Siegel noted, “As we age, our levels of bioavailable nitric oxide lower, so it makes sense that we see more of a benefit in consuming dietary nitrates in older patients.” The study supports the belief that a good diet, high in fresh fruits and vegetables, can help manage many chronic medical conditions. However, if you have high blood pressure or other medical conditions, or if you are taking medication, it’s recommended to consult a medical expert before making dietary changes.