Tart Cherry Juice Reduces Systolic Blood Pressure in Older Adults

Hypertension and dyslipidemia are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Common treatments for high blood pressure (BP) and dyslipidemia include medications, but there is question as to whether natural sources may be adequate to improve CVD risk factors. Studies have suggested that age‐associated cardiovascular conditions may be ameliorated by the antioxidants in tart cherry juice. Hence, a randomized placebo‐controlled trial was conducted to evaluate whether older adults consuming 16 fluid ounces (fl. oz) of tart cherry juice daily would reduce CVD risk factors including lipid profiles, glucose, BP, body weight and waist circumference when compared to a group consuming 16 fl. oz. of placebo daily for 12 weeks. Thirty‐seven (N=37) generally healthy older adults between the ages of 65–80 years were recruited. Participants were randomly assigned to the tart cherry group or placebo group and were blinded to their group assignment. Fasting blood samples, BP and waist circumference data were collected at baseline and 12 weeks. Dietary intake and physical activity were also assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using a nonparametric one‐way ANOVA with Wilcoxon in SAS Version 9.2. Our findings indicate that older adults who consumed 16 fl. oz. tart cherry juice for 12 weeks had significantly lower systolic BP compared to individuals who consumed placebo ( P <0.0089). Lipid profiles were not altered by tart cherry juice or placebo. Daily consumption of tart cherry juice does not negatively impact body weight and blood glucose. In conclusion, daily incorporation of tart cherry juice into the diet reduced systolic BP in older adults and could be a plausible intervention for improved cardiovascular health in older adults. Support or Funding Information Cherry Marketing Institute