Citrus Bergamot and Blood Pressure: Science Behind the Hype

Metabolic health is about more than just cholesterol—it includes blood pressure, blood sugar, and triglyceride levels. When these markers are out of balance, the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke increases significantly. This cluster of conditions is known as metabolic syndrome.

Citrus bergamot, a fruit from southern Italy, has shown promise not only for cholesterol but also for broader metabolic support. Could it also play a role in managing blood pressure? Let’s explore what research says.

Quick Answer

Citrus bergamot supplements may support metabolic health by lowering LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and improving blood sugar balance. Limited evidence suggests it may also help reduce blood pressure, especially in people with metabolic syndrome. While results are encouraging, bergamot is best used as part of a comprehensive lifestyle plan, not as a replacement for prescribed medications.

What Is Metabolic Health?

Metabolic health involves the balance of several key markers:

• Cholesterol (LDL, HDL, total)

• Triglycerides

• Blood pressure

• Blood sugar

• Waist circumference

When three or more of these are elevated, a person may be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Citrus bergamot’s unique polyphenols have been studied across many of these markers.

Evidence for Citrus Bergamot in Metabolic Health

1. Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Multiple clinical trials show that bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF) lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL cholesterol. This directly supports cardiovascular and metabolic wellness.

2. Blood Sugar Balance

Some studies suggest bergamot helps reduce fasting blood glucose and improve insulin sensitivity, making it relevant for people at risk of type 2 diabetes.

3. Blood Pressure

The evidence for blood pressure is less extensive but promising:

• A 2019 review noted modest improvements in systolic and diastolic blood pressure among participants with metabolic syndrome.

• By improving vascular function and reducing oxidative stress, bergamot polyphenols may indirectly support healthier blood pressure levels.

How It Works: The Mechanisms

• Polyphenols: Flavonoids in bergamot may improve endothelial function, which influences blood vessel relaxation.

• Antioxidant effects: Reduce oxidative stress that contributes to hypertension and metabolic syndrome.

• Enzyme inhibition: Similar to mild statin-like effects, bergamot may reduce lipid buildup in arteries.

Who May Benefit Most?

• People with borderline high cholesterol and elevated triglycerides.

• Individuals with metabolic syndrome (a combination of obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar).

• Those who cannot tolerate high doses of statins and seek supportive natural options.

Safety and Considerations

• Typical safe dosage: 500–1,000 mg/day of standardized bergamot extract.

• Bergamot is not a substitute for blood pressure medications.

• People taking antihypertensive drugs or statins should consult their doctor before adding bergamot.

Citrus bergamot shows significant promise as part of a natural approach to metabolic health. While best known for cholesterol support, its effects on triglycerides, blood sugar, and possibly blood pressure suggest a broader role in cardiovascular wellness.

More large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm direct effects on blood pressure. For now, bergamot can be considered a supportive supplement—most effective when combined with a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and, when necessary, prescribed medications.

FAQ

Can citrus bergamot lower blood pressure?

Evidence suggests modest improvements, especially in people with metabolic syndrome, but more research is needed.

How does bergamot support metabolic health?

By improving cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar balance, and possibly vascular function.

Is bergamot enough to manage hypertension?

No. It may complement lifestyle changes, but should not replace prescribed blood pressure medication.

What’s the recommended dose for metabolic support?

500–1,000 mg per day of standardized extract, usually taken with meals.

 References

1. Mollace V, et al. Citrus Bergamot: From Calabrian Traditional Medicine to Clinical Use. Front Pharmacol. 2019.

2. Gliozzi M, et al. Bergamot polyphenolic fraction improves metabolic syndrome. Int J Cardiol. 2014.

3. Catanzaro R, et al. Nutraceuticals and blood pressure control: role of polyphenols from bergamot. Nutrients. 2021.