THE IMPACT OF DIETARY INORGANIC NITRATE ON BLOOD PRESSURE AND OTHER CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE RISK MARKERS

Abstract

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an inverse association between high vegetable consumption and lower blood pressure (BP), an important modifiable cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk marker. The high nitrate content of root (e.g. beetroot) and green leafy vegetables is a key dietary component related to the beneficial effects on vascular function and BP. However, the role of commensal oral bacteria which convert dietary nitrate to nitrite and potent vasodilator nitric oxide, in BP regulation and maintenance of vascular tone is unclear. A literature review (Chapter 2) was performed to determine the association between the oral microbiome and real time measures of vascular function. Elimination of oral bacteria with antiseptic mouthwash was reported to reduce conversion of inorganic and supplemental nitrate to nitrite and be associated (in some studies) with an increase in BP. This review highlighted the need for further research to focus on the effects of dietary nitrate on oral bacteria composition and CVD risk markers, and to determine underlying mechanisms.