High-Protein, High-Fiber Diet Lowers Risk Of Hypertension

A high-protein diet equates to a lower risk of developing high blood pressure, especially when combined with greater fiber intake, according to a Boston University study. The researchers monitored the diets and health of healthy individuals for 11 years. Those who ate more protein, from either animals or plants, had significantly lower blood pressure after four years of follow-up. The beneficial effects were found in overweight and normal weight people. Consuming more dietary protein was also associated with lower long-term risks for high blood pressure. A diet that included both high levels of fiber and protein led to 40-60 percent reductions in the incidence of hypertension.