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Extract
Background and study aims Whole grain foods such as oats, unrefined wheat and rye have been shown to be effective at reducing blood pressure, especially in the elderly or those with high blood pressure (hypertension). Recent studies suggest that the breakdown of indigestible fibres contained in these products by gut bacteria releases substances called short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are able to lower blood pressure. These substances, including one called propionate, are commonly used as food additives, and are known to be safe. The aim of this study is to find out the effects of drinking a propionate-containing drink on blood vessel stiffness (the hardening of the arteries meaning that the heart has to work harder to pump blood around the body, raising blood pressure), and whether this translates to a beneficial effect on blood pressure. Who can participate? Healthy men aged 40 to 65. What does the study involve? Participants attend two study visits spaced two-four weeks apart. For three days before attending the study visits, participants are asked not to eat any wholegrain foods, beans, pre- or probiotics. At the first study visit, participants are randomly allocated to receive one of two treatments. The first treatment involves drinking a 150ml drink containing 3mg calcium propionate, and the second treatment involves drinking a 150ml drink identical inconsistency that does not contain calcium propionate. At the start of each study visit, participants have a tube placed into a vein in their arm and have a blood sample taken, as well as having the stiffness of their blood vessels measured with a specialised device similar to having blood pressure measured. A 24 hour blood pressure monitor is also fitted so that blood pressure can be measured continuously over the next 24 hours. Participants then consume a breakfast containing the drink that have been allocated to for that study visit and have blood samples taken through the tube in their arm after 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour and 3 hours. Blood vessel stiffness is measured on the other arm at the same times. Participants then return the following morning for a final blood test and blood vessel stiffness measurement and the blood pressure monitor is also removed so the results can be reviewed. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? There are no direct benefits or risks involved with taking part in the study. Where is the study run from? Human Nutrition Unit at the Rowett Research Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen (UK) When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? January 2013 to May 2013 Who is funding the study? Scottish Government (UK) Who is the main contact? 1. Miss Karolin Muzs (public) [email protected] 2. Dr Frank Thies (scientific) [email protected]
Inclusion criteria
- Blood pressure