Washington, Oct 30 (ANI): Higher intake of diet rich in fructose might increase your chances of developing hypertension, say researchers.

During the study, lead researcher Diana Jalal, from University of Colorado Denver Health Sciences Center examined 4,528 adults 18 years of age or older with no prior history of hypertension.

The researchers calculated the fructose intake through fruit juices, soft drinks, bakery products, and candy.

After analyses, boffins found that people who ate or drank more than 74 grams per day of fructose or 2.5 sugary soft drinks per day were at an increased risk of developing hypertension.

A diet of more than 74 grams per day of fructose led to a 28pct, 36pct, and 87pct higher risk for blood pressure levels of 135/85, 140/90, and 160/100 mmHg, respectively.

“These results indicate that high fructose intake in the form of added sugars is significantly and independently associated with higher blood pressure levels in the US adult population with no previous history of hypertension,” the authors concluded.

The researchers said additional studies are needed to see if low fructose diets can normalize blood pressure and prevent the development of hypertension.

The findings were presented at the American Society of Nephrology’s 42nd Annual Meeting and Scientific Exposition in San Diego, California. (ANI)