Halperin et al (2006) found high lipid
levels were independently associated with
a greater risk of hypertension and could be
present for years before its onset.
Abnormal lipids can damage the endothelium,
leading to impaired production of
nitric oxide, a potent vasodilator. This
impairs a blood vessel’s ability to relax and
contract, leading to a raised resting blood
pressure (Halperin et al, 2006).
Dietary modification and other lifestyle
interventions are crucial in the management
of hypertension and prehypertension
to improve endothelial function. It
could be argued the benefits of dietary
modification arise not only from weight
loss but also from the antioxidant effects
of fruit and vegetables, which may help to
protect against endothelial dysfunction.
Dauchet et al (2007) found a diet high in
fruit and vegetables was associated with a
lower systolic and diastolic BP. The Dietary