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HomeNewsLow calorie Cranberry Juice lowers Blood Pressure in healthy adults

Low calorie Cranberry Juice lowers Blood Pressure in healthy adults

American Heart Association News Tip – Abstract 299

American Heart AssociationWashington, D.C. – Regularly drinking low-calorie cranberry juice may help get your blood pressure under control, according to new findings presented at the American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research 2012 Scientific Sessions.

In a study that measured the effects of drinking low-calorie cranberry juice, participants drank either low-calorie juice or a placebo drink every day for eight weeks as part of a controlled diet.

Blood pressure was measured at the beginning, mid-point and end of the study. After eight weeks, blood pressure values had significantly dropped from an average of 121/73 mmHg to 118/70 mmHg for those drinking the low-calorie cranberry juice. The placebo group showed no change.

Researchers note that cranberry juice is rich in antioxidants — naturally occurring molecules in fruit, tea, wine and other foods — which have been associated with lower blood pressure in other studies.

Glass of Cranberry Juice. (Copyright American Heart Association)
Glass of Cranberry Juice. (Copyright American Heart Association)

Almost 34% (33.8%) of all adult Tennesseans have been diagnosed with high blood pressure (TN BRFSS, 2007). High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, congestive heart failure, and kidney disease.

The study was funded by Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc.

Author disclosures are on the abstracts.

Statements and conclusions of study authors that are presented at American Heart Association scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect association policy or position. The association makes no representation or warranty as to their accuracy or reliability. The association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific association programs and events.  The association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and device corporations are available at www.heart.org/corporatefunding.

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