As one type of diet that is quite popular , the benefits of a vegetarian diet is now increased . Yes , in addition to making sure you consume enough fiber and nutrients from vegetables and fruits , the study found that this type of diet also helps you lower your blood pressure .
To prove this theory , a team of Japanese researchers analyzed seven clinical trials and 32 studies conducted between the years 1900-2013 . In the study, blood pressure was measured by examining respondents two readings ; systolic ( the pressure in the arteries when the heart is pumping blood ) and diastolic ( the pressure when the heart relaxes ) .
As a result, participants who adopt a vegetarian diet had a systolic blood pressure of about 5 mm Hg lower than those who eat meat and fish . As for diastolic blood pressure , differences emerged on a vegetarian to be in the range of 2.2-5 mm Hg when compared with non - vegetarians .
A report commissioned by the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center , Osaka , said the results were equivalent to losing weight by 5 kg on a low sodium diet . Almost half of the benefits gained by the consumption of modern medicine .
" The decrease in systolic blood pressure of 5 mm Hg is expected to reduce mortality from some diseases such as coronary heart disease , and stroke , " the report said , as quoted by the Daily Mail , Thursday ( 02/27/2014 ) .