Can dietary changes help treat pulmonary hypertension?
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In a study published in Cell Metabolism, researchers from the Division of Cardiology at the University of Pittsburgh found that hypertensive pulmonary blood vessel cells have a voracious appetite for two amino acids, glutamine and serine and this metabolism of glutamine and serine is a key driver of pulmonary hypertension disease progression.
Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, play crucial roles in cellular structures, biological functions, and tissue regulation. In hypertensive pulmonary blood vessels, metabolism of glutamine and serine yields proline and glycine, key components of collagen protein. Elevated levels of proline and glycine due to increased glutamine and serine metabolism drive collagen overproduction in hypertensive vessels, resulting in stiffening and impaired function characteristic of pulmonary hypertension.
Dietary changes can potentially impact pulmonary hypertension by influencing factors such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular function. For instance, a diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and phytonutrients from fruits and vegetables may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are known contributors to pulmonary hypertension. Additionally, reducing sodium intake can help manage fluid retention and lower blood pressure, which are important considerations in pulmonary hypertension management.
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