Study finds eating pears regularly may improve blood pressure, heart function | Latest News & Updates at Daily News & Analysis

Eating fresh pears may improve blood pressure and vascular function in middle-aged men and women who are at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes, according to a new study. “These initial results are very promising,” said lead author Sarah A Johnson, who conducted the research while at Florida State University. “With metabolic syndrome being of such high prevalence in the US, we feel it is important to explore the potential for functional foods such as pears to improve cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure in affected middle-aged adults,” Johson said, who is now at from the Colorado State University.

NHS England » Prevention is key to the fight against heart disease – Dr Matt Kearney

The newly appointed National Clinical Director for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention looks at the challenges ahead: There is now growing acceptance across the NHS that we have to get serious about prevention. Much of this, of course, is driven by the epidemic of obesity, poor diet, inactivity and other risk factors that come with the 21st century lifestyle. It is estimated that around two thirds of premature deaths – that is deaths before the age of 75 – could be prevented by tackling the major risk factors. And one in four premature deaths is caused by cardiovascular disease (CVD), especially heart attacks and strokes.