Participants sought: Gut pH and blood pressure regulation

Monash researchers are investigating whether high fibre foods
may help reduce blood pressure

In recent years, there has been an explosion of information about the gut microbiome (the billions of microorganisms that live in our large intestine). 

Research suggests that the food we eat plays a role in manipulating the environment of the gut microbiome, and can contribute to the development of high blood pressure. When we eat foods that are high in fibre, the fibre makes its way down to the large intestine, mainly undigested. The ‘good’ bacteria feed on this fibre and release acidic substances that might be beneficial in lowering blood pressure.

In this study we plan to compare the gut pH of people with both normal blood pressure and high blood pressure. pH is a measure of acidity from 1-14 (the lower the pH, the more acidic, the higher the pH, the less acidic). We want to measure the release of the acidic substances because of fibre fermentation, and measure the pH of the gastrointestinal tract at the same time.

If you are between 18 and 70, and have a BMI 18.5-35, we would love to hear from you! We welcome individuals who have high blood pressure (treated or untreated) as well as individuals without high blood pressure.

Participants will be invited to visit the Alfred Centre for one study visit (approximately 90 mins) where they will swallow an electronic pH sensing capsule & be given a 24 hour blood pressure monitor to wear. Participants also provide blood & faecal samples.

Contact: 

Ms Dakota Rhys-Jones
Phone: (03) 9905 8098
Email dakota.rhys-jones@monash.edu
Web: https://www.marqueslab.com/gut