Are soybeans the solution for high blood pressure?
Women going through menopause can experience elevated blood pressure. There seems to be a simple solution.
American research has shown that roasted soybeans can lower high blood pressure in women during menopause. By eating a daily portion of soybeans, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases may be reduced.
Sixty women in menopause, who suffered from high blood pressure and symptoms like hot flashes, participated in the study. For eight weeks, they followed a slightly modified diet aimed at lowering blood pressure and preventing heart problems.
The participants consumed 25 grams less animal protein, replacing it with roasted soybeans containing 25 grams of plant-based protein.
After eight weeks, the participants saw their blood pressure drop by nearly 10%. There was also an 11% reduction in bad LDL cholesterol levels.
According to cardiologists, the risk of heart disease doubles every time systolic blood pressure (the upper number) rises by 20 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (the lower number) rises by 10 mmHg.