As reported by EatingWell, scientists studied whether live microorganisms obtained from food can be beneficial for people with high blood pressure and how their effect is related to a sedentary lifestyle.
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The researchers used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in the United States. The analysis included more than 15,000 adults diagnosed with hypertension.
Based on the amount of live microorganisms, the products consumed by participants were divided into three groups. Sterilized and heavily processed products usually contain the least, fresh unpeeled fruits and vegetables contain a moderate amount, and some yogurts and fermented vegetables contain the most.
Participants also reported how much time they spent sitting each day – working at a desk, driving a car or using public transport, watching TV, reading, or using a computer.
The scientists also took into account other factors that could affect health, including overall diet, salt intake, and probiotic supplements.
Each additional hour increased the risk
The results showed that people who ate products with the least live microorganisms faced a higher risk of death from any cause and from cardiovascular diseases. The risk was lower for people who consumed the most of such products.
The duration of sitting also played a significant role. Each additional hour spent sitting was associated with a 6% higher risk of death from any cause and a 6.5% higher risk of death from cardiovascular diseases.
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An especially interesting connection was observed among people who spent more than four hours sitting per day. Participants in this group who consumed moderate or high amounts of food containing live microorganisms had a lower risk of death from heart diseases.
However, this does not mean that kefir or sauerkraut can eliminate the harm of a sedentary lifestyle. The study revealed only a statistical association and did not prove that these products directly protect against premature death.
Which products to include in the diet?
Foods that may contain many live microorganisms include:
- kefir;
- yogurt containing live bacteria;
- sauerkraut;
- kimchi;
- other thermally untreated fermented vegetables.
They are easy to include in the daily diet. Kefir or natural yogurt can be used to prepare smoothies and breakfasts, fermented vegetables served with lunch, and sour cream in some dishes replaced with natural Greek yogurt.
Fresh unpeeled fruits and vegetables can also be beneficial, but they must be thoroughly washed before eating.
The study has important limitations
The scientists did not precisely measure how many live microorganisms were in each product – the food was grouped based on a classification prepared by experts. Moreover, participants self-reported what they ate and how much time they spent sitting, so their answers might not have been entirely accurate.
Despite these limitations, the findings once again remind us that for people with hypertension, it is not one miracle remedy but a combination of daily habits that matters. Sitting less, moving regularly, and including fermented and minimally processed products in the diet are small but potentially health-beneficial changes.
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