Energy balance
Weight reduction interventions consistently lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure in overweight or hypertensive individuals, with the magnitude of blood pressure reduction being directly proportional to the amount of weight loss achieved.
If you are overweight or have high blood pressure, losing weight is one of the most effective non-pharmacological ways to lower your blood pressure. You do not need to reach an 'ideal' weight; the reduction in blood pressure is directly proportional to how much weight you lose. Aim for a sustained weight loss of around 9 kg (approx. 20 lbs) through dietary changes, ideally with professional support, which can result in a clinically significant drop in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Overall, the results of the trials indicate that weight reduction lowers blood pressure over intervals of up to one year. The magnitude of the blood pressure response appears to be directly proportional to the amount of weight loss achieved.
Why this rating
Based on pooled data from multiple randomized controlled trials and prospective observational studies, though long-term maintenance is noted as a challenge.
Source
Obesity and hypertension: epidemiological and clinical issues
S. Macmohan et al. · European Heart Journal · 1987
DOI 10.1093/eurheartj/8.suppl_b.57
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