Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant health issue affecting millions of people globally. It is a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. The condition is often linked to increased activity of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), inflammation, and oxidative stress, among other factors.
While pharmaceutical treatments are available for hypertension, they can come with unwanted side effects. This has led to a growing interest in natural alternatives that are free from side effects. Egg whites, known for their high protein content, also contain bioactive peptides with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihypertensive properties.
Recent research has shown that even after removing ovotransferrin, egg white proteins can still provide effective antihypertensive peptides. A study conducted by Jianping Wu’s team at the University of Alberta and published in Food Materials Research in December 2024 highlighted the potential of egg white proteins as a natural remedy for high blood pressure.
The study evaluated the antihypertensive effects of ovotransferrin-depleted egg white hydrolysate (OD-EWH) in spontaneously hypertensive rats, with regular egg white hydrolysate (EWH) used as a reference. Both treatments significantly reduced systolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and diastolic blood pressure in the rats without affecting heart rate.
Further analysis showed that both hydrolysates had positive effects on the renin-angiotensin system, with EWH also reducing inflammation markers and OD-EWH increasing endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression in the aorta. This suggests that OD-EWH may help lower blood pressure by enhancing nitric oxide production and reducing oxidative stress.
The study concludes that egg white hydrolysates, particularly those depleted of ovotransferrin, show promise as natural antihypertensive agents. By targeting key mechanisms involved in hypertension, such as the RAS and eNOS activation, OD-EWH offers a potential solution for managing high blood pressure.
This research emphasizes the importance of exploring natural, cost-effective food-based solutions for hypertension management. It also paves the way for further developments in functional food products aimed at improving cardiovascular health.
In summary, egg white proteins, specifically ovotransferrin-depleted hydrolysates, demonstrate potential as effective natural remedies for hypertension. By addressing key factors contributing to high blood pressure, these egg white derivatives offer a promising approach to managing this prevalent health condition.
