Acute Effects of Beet Juice Intake on the Vascular Function of Hypertensive Patients

Acute Effects of Beet Juice Intake on Vascular Function in Treated Hypertensive Patients

To assess the acute effects of only one dose of beet juice on hypertensive subjects treated with vascular endothelial function parameters, using the microvascular reactivity method.

Systemic arterial hypertension is an established risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Among the main modifiable environmental factors of hypertension, the investigators highlight inadequate eating habits, such as low vegetable consumption. Clinical studies have shown that inorganic nitrate from beet juice intake has a protective effect against CVD due to reduced blood pressure, inhibition of platelet aggregation and prevention of endothelial dysfunction. However, there is still no consensus on its benefits of inorganic nitrate in vascular health. Associated with this, there are no previous studies in the literature that correlate the acute effects of inorganic nitrate intake on endothelial function assessed by microvascular reactivity through laser. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the acute effects (single dose) of inorganic nitrate, through the ingestion of beet juice, in the vascular parameters and endothelial function of treated hypertensive patients of both sexes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients of both sexes
• Age between 40 and 70 years
• Previous diagnosis of primary systemic arterial hypertension
• Signed the Informed Consent Term.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Secondary hypertension
• Systolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 180 mmHg or diastolic BP greater than or equal to 110 mmHg
• In use of beta-blockers
• Diabetes mellitus
• History of cancer
• Use of any dietary supplement
• Any serious life-threatening illness
• Cardiovascular diseases