Authors

Meisler & St Joer. (1996).^14,15

Conclusions

*Literature review supports a positive relationship between increased BMI & hypertension.
*40-50% of hypertension is attributable to obesity.
*Reviewed data was insufficient to quantify weight targets to minimize the risk of hypertension.

Concerns

*There is a lack of evidence regarding the degree of weight loss needed to improve hypertension.

Authors

McCarron & Reusser. (1996).¹⁶

Conclusions

Weight reduction is only associated with blood pressure decrease while weight remains reduced.

Concerns

Since 95% of all dieters regain any lost weight within 1-5 years, weight loss and/or low weight may not be an appropriate goal for hypertension management.

Authors

U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (1996).¹⁷

Conclusions

The relationship between BMI and hypertension is readily accepted by the medical community as evidenced by the use of weight loss as a primary intervention strategy for hypertensive individuals.

Concerns

Since 95% of all dieters regain any lost weight within 1-5 years, weight loss and/or low weight may not be an appropriate goal for hypertension management.

Authors

Weinsier, James, Darnell, Dustan, Birch, & Hunter. (1991).¹⁸

Conclusions

*Weight reduction may be used to treat hypertension.
*Based on the hypothesis that volume expansion secondary to weight gain without a compensatory decrease in peripheral resistance leads to increased blood pressure in genetically sensitive individuals.
*Weight loss decreases volume & therefore lowers blood pressure.

Concerns

*Weight loss and/or decreased blood pressure were not shown to be sustained over time.
*Logically, volume expansion secondary to weight regain would likely reverse pressure lowering effects.