
Plant Proteins Linked to Lower Hypertension Risk
A BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health meta-analysis of 12 prospective studies finds higher legume and soy intake is associated with lower hypertension risk. The strongest protection was seen with about 170 g/day of legumes and 60–80 g/day of soy foods, yielding roughly 16% and 19% lower risk, respectively, with legume benefits potentially rising to ~30% at 170 g/day and soy benefits plateauing after 60–80 g/day. Biological mechanisms may include potassium, magnesium, dietary fiber, fermentation products from soluble fiber, and soy isoflavones. While limitations exist due to study differences, the findings support public health guidance to prioritize legumes and soy as healthy protein sources in plant-based diets to help curb hypertension, noting Europe/UK intake is currently well below recommendations.












