Flavonoid-Rich Foods Lower Blood Pressure

Flavonoid-rich foods, such as apples, berries, and pears, lower blood pressure, according to a study published online in Hypertension. Researchers sequenced gut microbiomes for 904 participants and compared intakes of flavonoid-rich foods with blood pressure levels. Participants with the highest intake of these fruits and red wine lowered systolic blood pressure when compared to those with the lowest intake of these foods. The authors attribute the lower blood pressure readings to positive changes in gut bacteria diversity. These findings show similar dietary interventions may clinically benefit vascular outcomes and cardiometabolic health.