Fructose consumption by American adults has increased by 30% over the past 20 years and has been tied to the rise in obesity, but its effect on blood pressure is largely unknown.

From 2003-2006, over 4,500 adults who did not have a history of high blood pressure participated in a study which researched the possible link between fructose consumption and the development of high blood pressure. After examining participant’s diets, researchers determined that the median fructose intake for participants was 74 grams per day, which is the equivalent of about 2.5 sugary soft drinks. Fructose from fruit was not included, whereas fruit juices, regular soft drinks, bakery goods and candy were included in the calculation.

The data collected led researchers to conclude that fructose intake of more than 74 grams a day was tied to a 36% higher risk of blood pressure of 140/90 or higher, and this was after taking into account age, physical activity, calorie intake and salt intake.

The researchers hypothesized that possible mechanisms by which fructose could influence blood pressure include lowering nitric oxide production and/or raising uric acid in the blood. The study researchers wrote, “These results indicate that high fructose intake in the form of added sugars is significantly and independently associated with higher blood pressure levels in the U.S. adult population with no previous history of hypertension”.

It is hard to say conclusively if fructose can cause high blood pressure, and some people doubt there is a cause and effect style relationship. However, we do know that diet is an important part in overall cardiovascular health and that the DASH diet, which is low in artificial sugars, has been shown to lower blood pressure .

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“Fructose May Raise Blood Pressure” published by HealthDay News October 30, 2009. Can be viewed at http://health.usnews.com/articles/health/healthday/2009/10/30/fructose-may-raise-blood-pressure.html.

“High Fructose Intake May Raise Blood Pressure” By Kathleen Doheny for WebMD Health News
Oct. 30, 2009. Can be viewed at http://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/news/20091030/high-fructose-intake-may-raise-blood-pressure?page=2.