Probiotics can lower blood pressure

07/30/2014

Regular consumption of probiotics could lower blood pressure. This assessment comes from a recent meta-analysis from Australia. The diastolic and systolic values ​​decreased demonstrably, as the researchers report.

The Australian scientists evaluated nine randomized clinical trials. These showed that after eating probiotic foods such as yoghurt, milk or cheese, a slight reduction in blood pressure occurs within a few weeks. However, the effect only occurred when the participants consumed the probiotics for more than eight weeks and the probiotics contained at least 10 high 9 colony-forming units.

Systolic blood pressure decreased by an average of 3.56 mm Hg, diastolic by 2.38 mm Hg. Patients with baseline values ​​greater than 130/85 mm Hg profited more than Normotonik.

The probiotic products contain live germs, such as lactic acid bacteria, which are said to have a positive effect on the intestinal flora. Overall, however, the hypotensive effect of probiotics is rather low. Therefore, they should not replace the use of high-pressure medication in the rule.

Another study found that probiotics can also protect against chronic atopic dermatitis if they are consumed regularly. (Pm)

Image: Media Director / Markus Leiter