Nutrients improve heart health, blood pressure and immunity in these studies, according to this article from Natural Insights for Well Being.
Omega-3s reduce CVD
Although the government recommends taking omega-3s, most research on its health benefits has relied on self-reports of diet by people from similar ethnic backgrounds. Researchers in this study followed 2,372 people of multiethnic background for up to 10 years, measuring diet and levels of omega-3s every two years. Participants ranged in age from 45 to 84, did not have cardiovascular disease (CVD) at the start of the study, and were not taking omega-3 supplements.
In the part of the study covering U.S. participants, omega-3s and seafood in the diet were low, averaging 147 mg per day of EPA, DHA, and DPA; with a low of 103 mg and a high of 203 mg of omega-3s per day. Compared to those who got the least, those who got the most EPA and DHA were 51 and 61 percent, respectively, less likely to have a cardiovascular event. In whites and Chinese, those who got the most DPA were less likely to develop CVD.
Reference: Journal of the American Heart Association; December, 2013, Vol. 2, No. 6, Published Online
Blueberries, blood pressure, and immunity
Blueberries contain powerful antioxidants that help boost the immune response to viruses and tumors. In this study, 25 men and postmenopausal women took a blueberry powder supplement equal to about 8.8 ounces of fresh blueberries per day, or a placebo.
After six weeks, while there was no improvement for placebo, the blueberry group saw a 4 percent increase in immune response, more flexible arteries, and lower systolic blood pressure. In a sub-group of blueberry users with slightly elevated blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure also decreased.
Reference: Nutrition Research Journal; 2014, Vol. 34, No. 7, 577-84
Betsy’s Note: The supplements mentioned in this article also thin blood. This article is intended for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider.
Article copyright 2015 by Natural Insights for Well Being. All rights reserved. Used with permission.