AJM: Fruits and vegetables lower blood pressure and revitalize kidneys

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have found that fruits and vegetables help lower blood pressure, heal the kidneys and prevent cardiovascular disease due to the alkaline content of the fruit and vegetable. The results of the study are published in the American Journal of Medicine.

The five-year study involved non-diabetic volunteers with hypertension and macroalbuminuria (high urinary excretion of albumin). Albumin is a protein produced in the liver under the influence of thyroid hormones. An increase in its concentration in the urine indicates kidney damage.

The subjects were divided into three groups. The first group consumed two to four small cups of fruits and vegetables in addition to their normal diet, the second group took sodium bicarbonate (compressed baking soda) tablets, and the third group received standard medical care.

After the experimental period, the researchers analyzed the changes in the participants' health and well-being. It turned out that fruits, vegetables, and baking soda had beneficial effects on kidney health. However, only fruit and vegetable consumption lowered blood pressure and reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Researchers explained that alkaline-rich fruits and vegetables help to eliminate acids in animal products from the body. This reduces the burden on the kidneys, which are normally responsible for eliminating excess acids. In addition to alkaline, vegetables and fruits contain water and fiber (useful dietary fiber), which also have antihypertensive properties.

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