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Hypertension, single sugars and fatty acids

Journal of Human Hypertension volume 19, pages S5–S9 (2005)Cite this article

Abstract

Macronutrients may induce various hemodynamic effects. In the fructose-fed rat blood pressure increase is associated with insulin resistance and enhanced sympathetic activity. In humans, oral glucose intake induces a slight and transient increase of blood pressure secondary to sympathetic activation. This increase may be higher in hypertensive subjects and followed by a significant fall in blood pressure in elderly subjects. Saturated fatty acid-enriched diet induces in male rats a significant increase in blood pressure related to sympathetic activation. Some observational and interventional studies suggest that n-3 polyunsaturated fatty-acids may reduce blood pressure in humans. Thus, both carbohydrates and fatty acid balance may contribute to blood pressure changes. The clinical relevance of these data should be evaluated in long-term trials, in particular in overweight and hypertensive subjects.

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Acknowledgements

This work was commissioned by the Factors Affecting Hypertension Task Force of the European branch of the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI Europe). At the time of the workshop, industry members of this task force were Frito Lay, Kellog, RHM Technology, Unilever and Valio. Further information about ILSI Europe can be obtained through info@ilsieurope.be or tel. +32 (0) 2 771 0014.

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  1. Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolic Diseases and Cardiovascular Prevention, Paris-Nord University, and Jean Verdier Hospital, Bondy, AP-HP, France

    P Valensi

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Valensi, P. Hypertension, single sugars and fatty acids. J Hum Hypertens 19 (Suppl 3), S5–S9 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.jhh.1001954

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