Abstract
Hypertension (HTN) is one of the major contributing factors associated with the progression and development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Moreover, HTN is expected to significantly increase by the year 2050. Nitrate supplements such as beetroot juice (BRJ) have been utilized as a dietary therapeutic to mitigate the progression of HTN and CVD; however, arugula extract, which has a higher nitrate content, has yet to be assessed. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of arugula extract on cardiovascular health measures in hypertensive individuals. METHODS: 12 participants (M = 11; F = 1) with stage 1 HTN in accordance with the AHA participated in this placebo-controlled crossover design study. Participants were randomized to begin the assessment with either 4000mg of arugula extract or placebo supplement. Heart rate, blood pressure, and blood samples were collected at four timepoints (baseline, 1-HR, 2-HR, 3-HR, 24-HR) following ingestion. Flow mediated dilation (FMD) was collected at three timepoints (baseline, 3-HR, 24-HR) or each visit. Following the completion of the condition, a 72-HR washout period was utilized prior to reporting for the second condition. RESULTS: Mean SBP was significantly lower in arugula condition 1-HR, 2-HR, 3-HR, and 24-HR compared to the placebo group (p < .001), with a peak reduction at 3-HR (-12.96mmHg; p < .001; 95% CI: 10.31, 15.62) and a sustained reduction at 24-HR (9.5mmHg; p < .001; 95% CI: 6.85, 12.16). Total NO and concentrations increased from baseline to 3-HR (56.72µM; p < .001; 95% CI: 50.16, 63.27) compared to the placebo. Nitrate concentrations also increased from baseline to 3-HR (55.75µM; p < .001; 95% CI: 49.13, 62.36) compared to the placebo. FMD in the arugula condition improved at 3-HR (1.8%; p < .001; 95% CI: 0.96, 2.62) and 24-HR (1.6%; p < .001; 95% CI: 0.82, 2.49) post ingestion compared to the control. CONCLUSION: Arugula extract supplementation was able to significantly improve cardiovascular health parameters in individuals with stage 1 HTN. This study demonstrated the AE’s potential as dietary therapeutic to stimulate reductions in SBP, improvement endothelial function, and increase in NO/nitrate concentrations. Future studies should assess the efficacy of prolonged AE supplementation on long-term cardiovascular measures in hypertensive individuals.
Recommended Citation
Bolden, Leroy K.; Gallucci, Andrew R.; Andrews, Autumn E.; Pickler, Mary C.; Wright, Blake E.; Chapman-Lopez, Tomas J.; and Rauschendorfer, Savannah V.
(2026)
"Under Pressure: Arugula Extract’s Effect on Cardiovascular Measures in Hypertensive Individuals,"
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 2:
Iss.
18, Article 30.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol2/iss18/30
Included in
Health and Physical Education Commons, Medical Education Commons, Sports Sciences Commons