Blueberries, strawberries, blackcurrants: berries that are good for the heart
March 5, 2008 – Regular and moderate consumption of berries would have a protective effect on the heart, according to a Finnish study1. Polyphenols present in large quantities in blueberries, strawberries or blackcurrants act favorably on cholesterol and blood pressure, two risk factors for heart disorders.
The study was conducted among 72 people, aged 51 to 64 years who had high blood sugar or cholesterol, or who suffered from hypertension.
According to the results, the level of good cholesterol (HDL) increased by 5% in the group that consumed the berries, compared to an increase of 0,6% in the placebo group. However, the level of triglycerides and total cholesterol remained unchanged. The berries would also have reduced systolic blood pressure (on average 7 mmHg), especially in the most hypertensive participants.
The study authors also observed a reduction in the activation of blood platelets – associated with clotting and the risk of heart attack – after consuming berries.
For eight weeks, half of the participants consumed two daily servings of blueberries, lingonberry nectar, strawberry or blackcurrant puree, raspberry or arbutus juice. The other half ate foods without polyphenols (placebo group), but containing an equivalent amount of energy.
Charles Désy – PasseportSanté.net
1. Erlund I, Koli R, et al. Favorable effects of berry consumption on platelet function, blood pressure, and HDL cholesterol, Am J Clin Nutr, 2008 Feb;87(2):323-31.