The Role of Berry Consumption on Blood Pressure Regulation and Hypertension: An Overview of the Clinical Evidence

Abstract

The existence of a relationship between the consumption of dietary berries and blood pressure reduction in humans has been repeatedly hypothesized and documented by an increasing body of epidemiological and clinical evidence that has accumulated in recent years. However, results are mixed and complicated by a number of potentially confounding factors. The objective of this article is to review and summarize the available clinical evidence examining the effects of berry consumption on blood pressure regulation as well as the prevention or treatment of hypertension in humans, providing an overview of the potential contribution of distinctive berry polyphenols (anthocyanins, condensed tannins and ellagic acid), and results of dietary interventions with blueberries, bilberries, cranberries, raspberries, strawberries, chokeberries, cherries, blackcurrants and açai berries. We conclude that, while there is insufficient evidence supporting the existence of a direct blood pressure lowering effect, there is stronger evidence for specific types of berries acting indirectly to normalize blood pressure in subjects that are already hypertensive.

Keywords: anthocyanins; berries; blood pressure.

Figure 1

Potential mechanisms by which anthocyanins may improve vascular function and prevent endothelial damage. ACE, angiotensin converting enzyme; ACN, anthocyanins; cGMP, Cyclic guanosine monophosphate; COX, cyclooxygenase; eNOS, endothelial nitric oxide synthase; NADPH, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate; NO, nitric oxide.