Daily nut consumption linked to lower high blood pressure risk

A major review involving data from nearly 150,000 people across eight long-term studies suggests that eating a daily serving of nuts may reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure.

Researchers in the UK and Norway found that individuals consuming 30g of nuts per day had a 26 percent lower risk of being diagnosed with high blood pressure compared to non-consumers. Additionally, every 28g of daily nut consumption was associated with a 20 percent reduction in risk. While the study did not specify which varieties were consumed or if they were salted, previous research has linked almonds, cashews, walnuts, and peanuts to lower risks.

Experts suggest the protective effects might be due to L-arginine, an amino acid that helps produce nitric oxide to relax blood vessels, or fiber broken down by gut bacteria. The study did not investigate whether nut consumption can lower blood pressure in individuals who already have the condition. Medical professionals emphasize that a balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthy weight maintenance remain essential for blood pressure management.