The Role of Berry Consumption on Blood Pressure Regulation and Hypertension: An Overview of the Clinical Evidence

Abstract

The existence of a relationship between the consumption of dietary berries and blood pressure reduction in humans has been repeatedly hypothesized and documented by an increasing body of epidemiological and clinical evidence that has accumulated in recent years. However, results are mixed and complicated by a number of potentially confounding factors. The objective of this article is to review and summarize the available clinical evidence examining the effects of berry consumption on blood pressure regulation as well as the prevention or treatment of hypertension in humans, providing an overview of the potential contribution of distinctive berry polyphenols (anthocyanins, condensed tannins and ellagic acid), and results of dietary interventions with blueberries, bilberries, cranberries, raspberries, strawberries, chokeberries, cherries, blackcurrants and açai berries. We conclude that, while there is insufficient evidence supporting the existence of a direct blood pressure lowering effect, there is stronger evidence for specific types of berries acting indirectly to normalize blood pressure in subjects that are already hypertensive.

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“…In a recent study [ 178 ], the authors established that proanthocyanidins regulate blood pressure due to antioxidative scavenging of oxidized LDL and LDL cholesterol and the removal of carotid atherosclerosis plaque. Oxidative stress may be reduced by protecting the blood–brain barrier during arteriosclerosis by inhibiting oxidized LDL docking to its receptor LOX-1 to prevent cerebrovascular diseases.…”

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“…44 However, the body of literature on the antihypertensive effects of blueberries is mixed such that equal numbers of studies have demonstrated benefits and null effects. 44,45,73,74,76,77,[95][96][97] The reason(s) contributing to the discrepancies between our studies cannot be determined at this time. However, one possible contributing factor is the difference in the study population as the present study was performed in Colorado vs. Florida previously, 44 and there could be differences in the health status, physiology, and/or lifestyle factors.…”

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“…Anthocyanins have been linked with a positive effect on vascular function, hyperlipidemia and a lower risk of myocardial infarction after blueberries intake in dried form, as drink or extracts. However, the effect of blueberries consumption on the reduction of blood pressure is not clear [48,50,51].…”