[Weight reduction and blood pressure].

112 patients (78 hypertensives and 34 normotensives) received guidance from a specially trained dietitian on a low-calorie diet. During a mean control period of 10.8 months with a comparable number of visits in each group, the following results were observed: 51% (n = 40) of hypertensive patients achieved a significant weight reduction. In 28% (n = 22) antihypertensive medication was constant and in 23% (n = 18) this medication was reduced or withdrawn. 37% (n = 29) showed no significant changes in body weight or blood pressure and 12% (n = 9) dropped out. In 22 patients a weight reduction of 8.5 kg with a significant fall in blood pressure from 156/99 to 137/90 mm Hg was observed. In 18 hypertensives a weight reduction of 8.5 kg allowed reduction or withdrawal of antihypertensive medication with blood pressure remaining unchanged (139/91 vs. 135/90 mm Hg). Similar results were achieved in 34 normotensive obese patients: 59% (n = 20) had significant weight reduction, 32% (n = 11) no significant reduction in weight or blood pressure, and 9% (n = 3) dropped out. 20 patients with a reduction of 9 kg showed a significant fall in blood pressure from 132/84 to 123/80 mm Hg. The results demonstrate the favourable effect of weight reduction on blood pressure. The time-consuming nature of the frequent and intensive checks should, however, be borne in mind.