Train Your Body

Postmenopausal women are at risk of developing hypertension, arterial stiffness, and cardiovascular disease. Treatment typically involves using anti-hypertensive drugs, but many women are starting to opt for more natural alternatives. Several studies have shown that blueberries may have powerful anti-hypertensive properties that could help improve cardiovascular health. But, just how many blueberries do you need to eat in order to gain these benefits?Blueberries May Reduce HypertensionJohn P. Higgins, MD, who is a sports cardiologist for the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, cites one study in particular that involved 50 postmenopausal women. Half of the women took blueberries, and after the eight-week trial, researchers found a five to ten percent reduction in hypertension in the women who ate the blueberries. The study used around 22 grams of freeze dried, powdered blueberries. That’s the equivalent to a little less than one cup, or around 50 blueberries. Other studies have used anywhere