A systematic review of nutrition-based practices in prevention of hypertension among healthy youth

Turk J Pediatr. 2014 Jul-Aug;56(4):335-46.

Abstract

The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the results of observational and interventional research/studies on nutrition-based practices in the prevention of hypertension among healthy youth. The MEDLINE/PubMed database was searched using the key words, "hypertension," "nutrition/diet," "prevention" and "youth." Inclusion criteria were: 1) sample with a majority of adolescents, defined as 10-24 years of age, or findings for adolescents reported separately from other age groups; 2) primary research reports; 3) studies with normotensive participants; and 4) studies that focused on preventing hypertension/lowering blood pressure through at least one nutritional practice. Results of the analysis indicated that increased consumption of unsaturated fats, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dietary products, decreased consumption of dietary sodium and beverages containing caffeine, and breastfeeding were found to have preventive effects against high blood pressure in later years of life. The effects of training given during youth to encourage a healthy lifestyle and behavior changes based on diet and physical activity were also noted.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Blood Pressure / physiology*
  • Child
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / physiopathology
  • Hypertension / prevention & control*
  • Life Style*
  • Nutritional Status*
  • Young Adult