Dietary approaches to reduce aortic stiffness

The stiffness of the body's largest artery, the aorta, is associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and mortality, as well as neurological outcomes, such as stroke and cognitive decline. Maintaining low aortic stiffness from an early age may protect against diseases later in life. Numerous environmental variables are associated with aortic stiffness, including those relating to diet and lifestyle. To protect against CVD, numerous foods are advocated or discouraged based on their effects on blood pressure. Similarly, adhering to a dietary pattern associated with low aortic stiffness may aid in both the primary and secondary prevention of CVD. Dietary interventions may pharmacologically lower aortic stiffness through a variety of different mechanisms. This chapter reviews current evidence to establish whether specific dietary factors can be used to reduce aortic stiffness. Both epidemiological studies and randomized, controlled clinical trials are discussed.