Comparison of Keto and Mediterranean Diets: Possible Blood Pressure Reduction for Each Approach
Managing High Blood Pressure: Mediterranean and Keto Diets to the Rescue
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common health issue globally. This medical condition, characterized by high force of blood flowing through arteries, can lead to a spectrum of health problems, such as heart disease, aneurysm, chronic kidney disease, and dementia [6].
Lifestyle changes, including diet modifications, are crucial for managing high blood pressure, in addition to medications. Traditional diets like the DASH diet have been popular for managing hypertension. However, the Mediterranean and ketogenic (keto) diets have been gaining popularity in recent years [1].
A recent study provides further evidence that both the Mediterranean and keto diets can aid in lowering blood pressure and improving cardiovascular health for individuals with obesity or overweight [2].
Researchers studied 26 adults with obesity or overweight, high blood pressure, and moderate cardiovascular risk scores, dividing them into two groups: one following the Mediterranean diet, and the other following the keto diet for a period of three months [2].
Both diet groups experienced decreases in blood pressure and weight loss at the end of the study. Participants also saw an increase in their fat-free mass and a decrease in body fat, blood lipid levels, and insulin concentrations [2].
Participants following the keto diet showed a greater nocturnal blood pressure dip — a sign of healthy blood pressure regulation associated with reduced cardiovascular risk — than those in the Mediterranean group [2].
While the Mediterranean and keto diets have differing food restrictions, this study suggests that different dietary techniques can achieve similar beneficial outcomes depending on individual preferences [3]. Dr. Chen, a board-certified interventional cardiologist, said, "Metabolic syndrome — including high blood pressure, abdominal obesity, high blood sugar, and disordered lipids — remains a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease."
Dr. Ali, a board-certified general surgeon, agreed, stating, "The keto and the Mediterranean diets emphasize a reduction in carbohydrate and sugar intake, and that's what we found is the best way to shift the body into burning fat" [1].
Working with a registered dietitian can help individuals choose the ideal diet designed for their unique needs, goals, and lifestyle. Consider incorporating food rich in nutrients like healthy fats, leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, herbs, proteins, and whole grains into daily meals for overall health benefits. Balance, sustainability, and enjoyment should be key factors in your dietary approach.
- In managing high blood pressure, nutrition plays a vital role, with traditional diets like the DASH diet being popular, but the Mediterranean and ketogenic (keto) diets are gaining popularity.
- A recent study suggests that both the Mediterranean and keto diets can aid in lowering blood pressure and improving cardiovascular health for individuals with obesity or overweight.
- The study divided 26 adults with obesity or overweight, high blood pressure, and moderate cardiovascular risk scores into two groups: one following the Mediterranean diet, and the other following the keto diet for a period of three months.
- Both diet groups experienced decreases in blood pressure and weight loss at the end of the study, with participants also seeing an increase in their fat-free mass and a decrease in body fat, blood lipid levels, and insulin concentrations.
- Participants following the keto diet showed a greater nocturnal blood pressure dip — a sign of healthy blood pressure regulation associated with reduced cardiovascular risk — than those in the Mediterranean group.
- While the Mediterranean and keto diets have differing food restrictions, this study suggests that different dietary techniques can achieve similar beneficial outcomes depending on individual preferences.
- For individuals looking to choose the ideal diet, working with a registered dietitian can help them find a diet designed for their unique needs, goals, and lifestyle.
- Balance, sustainability, and enjoyment should be key factors in an individual's dietary approach, aiming to incorporate food rich in nutrients like healthy fats, leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, herbs, proteins, and whole grains into daily meals for overall health benefits.
