In March 2019 researchers from the USA published their review of the medical scientific literature to assess the effect of a vegan diet on blood pressure levels. A total of 11 studies involving 983 individuals (aged 18 years and older) were included in the review. Results showed that a vegan diet did not result in a significant change in blood pressure levels. However, a further analysis revealed that in studies when the starting systolic blood pressure was 130 mm Hg and over, a vegan diet resulted in a slight decrease in blood pressure levels. The researchers concluded that in this situation changes in blood pressure induced by a vegan diet without calorie restrictions were comparable with portion-controlled diets and other dietary approaches recommended by medical societies.
Lopez PD et al. The Effect of Vegan Diets on Blood Pressure in Adults: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Am J Med. 2019 Mar 6. pii: S0002-9343(19)30171-8