Effect of Weight-Reducing Diet on the Blood Pressure of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

Abstract

Spontaneously hypertensive rats were placed on weight-reducing diets either by limiting regular feedings to twice weekly or by providing half the normal ration daily. Significant reductions in body weight and blood pressure were observed at 2, 4 and 6 wk after beginning the diet. Blood pressure fell despite maintenance of a normal or elevated Na intake, indicating that the reduction was not secondary to decreased Na intake. Reinstitution of a normal food intake resulted in a return of body weight and blood pressure within 3 wk.