Bissap: improving heart health

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Extract from the article: High blood pressure is the first chronic disease in Togo: 30% of the population is affected. High blood pressure is one of the main cardiovascular risk factors, meaning that it greatly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular complications (st

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High blood pressure is the first chronic disease in Togo: 30% of the population is affected. High blood pressure is one of the main cardiovascular risk factors, meaning that it greatly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular complications (stroke, myocardial infarction, renal failure, lower limb arteriopathy...), hence the importance of monitoring and treating it regularly. In a study published in “The Journal of Nutrition”, researchers at Boston University found that daily consumption of 3 glasses of bissap juice was associated with a significant reduction in blood pressure, This is a significant contribution to improving heart health and preventing cardiovascular disease.  

A diuretic and draining action

In addition to having a naturally sweet, fruity and tart taste, this red juice would have a hypotensive action, due in particular to the presence of anthocyanins, natural antioxidant pigments known to increase the resistance of blood vessels and promote blood fluidity. Thus, by supporting the proper functioning of the vessels and promoting blood circulation, bissap helps to regulate the blood pressure in the arteries. Bissap also has a diuretic and draining action, that is, it increases the volume of urine. By promoting the elimination of water and sodium from the body, they reduce the volume of blood circulating in the veins and therefore blood pressure.

3 glasses per day for 6 weeks

To achieve this result, US researchers conducted a clinical trial on 65 adults aged 30-70 suffering from mild high blood pressure but not taking any hypotensive medication. They were divided into two groups: the first group had to drink 3 glasses of 240 ml bissap juice each per day for 6 weeks, while the second group had to drink 3 equivalent glasses of a “placebo” drink during the same period. At the end of 6 weeks, the researchers observed a 7% reduction in systolic blood pressure (the top figure when measuring blood pressure) in people who had taken bissap, which corresponds to the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts or beats. Diastolic pressure (the lower figure, which indicates tension when the heart is at rest) was also -3% lower. These results suggest that the daily consumption of bissap juice (hibiscus infusion), in sufficient quantity can be easily integrated into the diet, lowers blood pressure in slightly hypertensive adults and may be a recommended simple dietary change,” the researchers said, but they must continue their research.

In general, bissap juice is a safe drink, but it’s best to seek medical advice before consuming it, especially for pregnant and lactating women, people with liver disease, hypotension (already low blood pressure) and diabetes.

Jean ELI