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Nutraceuticals and Blood Pressure Control: Results from Clinical Trials and Meta-Analyses

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Abstract

Beyond the well-known effects on blood pressure (BP) of the dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) and the Mediterranean diets, a large number of studies has investigated the possible BP lowering effect of different dietary supplements and nutraceuticals, the most part of them being antioxidant agents with a high tolerability and safety profile. In particular relatively large body of evidence support the use of potassium, l-arginine, vitamin C, cocoa flavonoids, beetroot juice, coenzyme Q10, controlled-release melatonin, and aged garlic extract. However there is a need for data about the long-term safety of a large part of the above discussed products. Moreover further clinical research is advisable to identify between the available active nutraceuticals those with the best cost-effectiveness and risk–benefit ratio for a large use in general population with low-added cardiovascular risk related to uncomplicated hypertension.

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Cicero, A.F.G., Colletti, A. Nutraceuticals and Blood Pressure Control: Results from Clinical Trials and Meta-Analyses. High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 22, 203–213 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40292-015-0081-8

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