Qom University of Medical Sciences Journal

Background and Objectives: Dietary intake and anthropometric indices have a significant role in the development and progression of hypertension. In this study, anthropometric indices and effective nutrients were assessed in the development and exacerbation of hypertension in postmenopausal women with a history of hypertension.

Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 211 postmenopausal women with high blood pressure in Qom province. First, weight, height, and waist circumference to hip circumference ratio, were measured. Food intake of the subjects was recorded by the 24-hour dietary recall. Nutritionist 4 software was used to determine nutrient intake, and was compared with recommended daily allowances (RDA). Data were analyzed using independent and dependent t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficient. The significance level was considered p<0.05.

Results: In this study, the mean protein intake was 58.5g (123% RDA) and carbohydrate was 201.5g (155% RDA). 12.3g (one quarter or 25%) of fat intake was saturated fat. The mean sodium intake was 1268.5mg (98% RDA) and the mean intake of potassium was 1779mg (only 37% of RDA). The mean daily intake of calcium was 451mg (37% RDA). Ninety percent of the subjects had abdominal obesity and 75% were overweight and obese.

Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, dietary nutrients intake that affects blood pressure control, such as dietary fiber, potassium, and calcium, was significantly lower than the recommended amounts. Therefore, provision of the necessary trainings is required for healthy food selection and weight control.