Unilever Unveils Promise SuperShots to Help Reduce the Risk of High Blood Pressure

Promise SuperShots are consistent with the DASH eating plan since they are made with fruit, contain a good source of potassium per serving, are low in sodium, and are fat and cholesterol free.

08/07/08 A just-released review article in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension concludes that an increase in potassium coupled with a decrease in sodium may be the most important dietary choice, after weight loss, to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The problem is, most Americans consume about half the recommended daily amount of potassium and double the recommended amount of sodium, putting them at risk for high blood pressure and stroke.

Now, Unilever is introducing the first functional shot that may help close the potassium gap. Promise SuperShots for blood pressure are essential fruit blend functional shots that provide a good source of potassium and are low in sodium. Each three-ounce Promise SuperShots contains 350 mg of potassium, similar to the amount contained in a serving of a fruit that is a good source of potassium, such as a small banana. Promise SuperShots fruit blends come in three delicious flavors: strawberry banana, peach apricot, and mixed berry.

"High blood pressure is a major public health concern in the United States. But there is the potential to save many lives and significantly reduce health care costs associated with this disease if more Americans would increase their consumption of potassium and lower their intake of sodium each day," said Katherine Brooking, MS, Registered Dietitian.

According to a scientific statement from the American Heart Association's Nutrition Committee, daily intake of 4,700 mg of potassium is an effective dietary change to lower blood pressure. Diets high in potassium help to remove excess sodium from the body. More than 30 studies and several meta- analyses of these studies have shown that increasing dietary potassium levels to a target of 4,700 mg a day, as part of a diet low in sodium, can reduce blood pressure across a range of ages and ethnic backgrounds.

The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan provides 4,700 mg of potassium per day for a 2,100 calorie diet. The DASH dietary pattern is now recommended by all U.S. health organizations as an effective dietary pattern for lowering blood pressure. DASH emphasizes fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, nuts and legumes. It is preferable to get potassium from the diet, as foods that are good sources of potassium usually contain other important nutrients.

Promise SuperShots are consistent with the DASH eating plan since they are made with fruit, contain a good source of potassium per serving, are low in sodium, and are fat and cholesterol free.

"Promise SuperShots were designed to help adults who are concerned about managing their risk of high blood pressure by adding more potassium to their diet," said Douglas Balentine, Ph.D., Director of Nutrition and Health at Unilever North America. "Many Americans find it hard to not only get enough potassium but also from the recommended sources. This product line fits with the DASH eating plan and is an easy and convenient way to get closer to the recommended daily amount of potassium. This new product innovation is an example of Unilever's commitment to helping people stay healthy longer."

For the past 40 years, Promise's mission has been to deliver delicious foods to promote a healthy lifestyle. Within the product portfolio,Promise has heart healthy products which help people maintain heart health or lower their cholesterol. Healthy lifestyle information, education and recipes can be found at http://www.promisehealthyheart.com.

"Promise SuperShots are a significant addition to our Promise brand of products, and the second in our growing line of vitality shot products in the United States," said Eric Berman, Brand Director, Promise. "We believe that we can empower consumers to take charge of their health and wellness by providing functional foods that can be a part of their diet and lifestyle. We're excited with this latest innovation as it represents our continuing commitment to delivering delicious foods that can help promote a healthy lifestyle."

Promise SuperShots are available at major retailers nationwide, priced at approximately $3.99 for a pack of four shots.

High blood pressure is a major public health concern affecting 73 million Americans -- nearly 1 in 3 adults -- and only 35% are able to control it. It is associated with an increased risk of death and illness from stroke, coronary heart disease, heart failure, and end-stage renal disease.