Nonpharmacological Interventions in the Management of Hypertension in the Adult Population With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Elucidating the role of diet in maintaining gut health to reduce the risk of obesity, cardiovascular and other age-related inflammatory diseases: recent challenges and future recommendations

A healthy balanced diet is crucial in protecting the immune system against infections and diseases. Poor diets, such as the Western diet, contribute to the development of metabolic diseases, hypertension, and obesity. Microbiota, primarily composed of different microorganisms and residing in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), also play a significant role in maintaining gut health. Polyphenols and probiotics found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds promote gut health and support the growth of beneficial bacteria. Different types of diets, their categories, and their impact on health are also mentioned. The relationship between diet, gut health, and the risk of developing obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory diseases is discussed in this review article. The rationale behind the review concludes future recommendations for maintaining gut health and reducing the occurrence of obesity, cardiometabolic diseases, and other inflammatory diseases. There is also the need for standardized research methods, long-term studies, and translating scientific knowledge into practical dietary recommendations.

Blood pressure control and impact on cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A critical analysis of the literature

High blood pressure in individuals with type2 diabetes mellitus increases the risk of cardiovascular events. The international management guidelines recommend starting pharmacological treatment with blood pressure values >140/90mmHg. However, there is no optimal cut-off point from which cardiovascular events can be reduced without causing adverse events. A blood pressure range of >130/80 to <140/90mmHg seems to be adequate. These values can be achieved through non-pharmacological (diet, exercise) and pharmacological interventions (using drugs that have been shown to reduce cardiovascular events). The choice of one or several drugs must be individualised, according to factors including, ethnicity, age, and associated comorbidities, among others.