Does Tomato Juice Affect Blood Pressure? The Scientific Consensus

November 20, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2019 study published in the journal Food Science and Nutrition, consuming unsalted tomato juice daily was shown to significantly improve both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in participants with prehypertension or hypertension. This research, among others, has sparked public interest, leading many to question: does tomato juice affect blood pressure, and how can it be used effectively?

Quick Summary

Studies show that unsalted tomato juice can help lower blood pressure due to its high potassium and lycopene content. However, the high sodium levels in many commercial brands can counteract these benefits. Choosing low- or no-sodium options is crucial for heart health.

Key Points

Unsalted is key: The blood pressure-lowering benefits of tomato juice depend heavily on choosing unsalted or low-sodium versions, as high sodium can raise blood pressure.
Rich in potassium: Tomato juice is a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps balance sodium levels and relax blood vessels, which can lead to lower blood pressure.
Lycopene's antioxidant power: The antioxidant lycopene, abundant in tomatoes, helps reduce inflammation and improves blood vessel function, both of which are beneficial for heart health.
Not a substitute for medication: While a beneficial dietary addition, tomato juice should not replace prescribed hypertension medication without a doctor's guidance.
Consider individual health: Individuals with kidney problems or GERD, or those on certain medications, should consult a healthcare provider before increasing their tomato juice intake.
Homemade vs. store-bought: Making your own tomato juice at home allows for complete control over sodium content, maximizing its health benefits.

The Scientific Link Between Tomato Juice and Blood Pressure

Numerous studies indicate a beneficial relationship between tomato consumption and cardiovascular health, particularly blood pressure regulation. The key lies in the rich nutritional profile of tomatoes, which includes potent antioxidants and essential minerals. The main bioactive compounds at play are potassium and lycopene, both of which have been the focus of medical research for their heart-healthy properties.

Potassium's Role in Blood Pressure Regulation

One of the most important minerals in tomato juice for blood pressure is potassium. As a natural diuretic, potassium helps to balance the body's sodium levels. Excess sodium can lead to water retention and increased blood volume, which raises blood pressure. Potassium counteracts this by promoting the excretion of sodium and water, thus helping to relax blood vessel walls and improve overall blood flow. A diet rich in potassium is a cornerstone of heart-healthy dietary approaches, like the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet.

Lycopene: The Powerful Antioxidant

Lycopene is the carotenoid pigment responsible for the red color of tomatoes and is a potent antioxidant. It has been shown to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which reduces inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is a known contributor to hypertension. Studies suggest that lycopene may help lower blood pressure by improving the function of the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels, which leads to better blood circulation and less arterial stiffness. For better absorption of lycopene, it's beneficial to consume it with a small amount of healthy fat, like olive oil.

The Critical Importance of Sodium Content

While the potassium and lycopene in tomatoes offer clear cardiovascular benefits, the main drawback of commercial tomato juice is its typically high sodium content. Many brands add a significant amount of salt for flavor, which can directly counteract the positive effects on blood pressure.

For those monitoring their blood pressure, choosing low- or no-sodium varieties is essential. For instance, some popular brands may contain as much as 800 mg of sodium per serving, representing a substantial portion of the recommended daily intake, which the American Heart Association advises be capped at 1,500 mg. Therefore, an individual's choice of tomato juice brand and its sodium content is the most significant factor determining its effect on their blood pressure.

Comparison of Unsalted Tomato Juice and Other Juices


Feature	Unsalted Tomato Juice	Beetroot Juice	Pomegranate Juice
Key Compounds	Potassium, Lycopene	Dietary Nitrates	Polyphenols, Anthocyanins
:---	:---	:---	:---
Primary Mechanism	Mineral balance (potassium), antioxidant action (lycopene)	Nitric oxide conversion, vasodilation	Anti-inflammatory, inhibits ACE
Scientific Evidence	Strong evidence for unsalted versions reducing BP	Strong evidence, particularly raw juice	Good evidence from meta-analyses
Primary Drawback	Risk of high sodium in regular versions	Can be less palatable, may affect blood sugar in sugary types	Often contains high added sugar; check labels
Effect on LDL	Reduces LDL cholesterol	Less direct effect on cholesterol compared to BP	Reduces LDL, prevents plaque buildup

Risks and Considerations

High Sodium: As highlighted, the sodium content in many commercial tomato juice products can be counterproductive for blood pressure management. Always check the nutrition label for low- or no-sodium options.
Kidney Health: Individuals with pre-existing kidney disease should consult a doctor before significantly increasing their intake of potassium-rich foods, including tomato juice. Impaired kidneys may struggle to process high levels of potassium, which can be dangerous.
GERD: The natural acidity of tomatoes can trigger or worsen symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or heartburn in susceptible individuals.
Medication Interactions: The vitamin K and potassium in tomato juice could potentially interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) and specific blood pressure drugs. It is crucial to discuss any dietary changes with a healthcare provider.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

For most healthy adults and those with mild hypertension, choosing unsalted tomato juice can be a positive dietary choice for blood pressure management. The rich concentration of potassium and antioxidant lycopene provides cardiovascular benefits that have been validated by numerous studies. However, these benefits are dependent on selecting low-sodium products and consuming them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Homemade tomato juice, where sodium levels can be controlled entirely, is often the healthiest option. A balanced approach, combined with professional medical advice, is always the best path forward for managing blood pressure effectively. For more information on dietary management of hypertension, consult resources like the American Heart Association (AHA) recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, while some effects may be felt relatively quickly, it is not a quick fix. The benefits of tomato juice, such as those from potassium and lycopene, are most effective when consumed regularly over a longer period as part of a heart-healthy diet.

When it comes to blood pressure, the primary concern with canned tomato juice is the added sodium. Homemade or freshly squeezed tomato juice gives you complete control over the salt content, making it a safer and often healthier choice.

A 2019 study showed positive effects from participants drinking about one cup (200 ml) of unsalted tomato juice daily for a year. However, personal nutritional needs can vary, and it is best to consult a doctor or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

Yes, it can. Tomato juice is high in potassium, and for those taking certain blood pressure medications (like ACE inhibitors or potassium-sparing diuretics), excessive potassium intake can be risky. Always consult your doctor before making significant dietary changes.

The lycopene in cooked or processed tomato products, like juice, is often more bioavailable (easily absorbed by the body) than in fresh, raw tomatoes. Adding a healthy fat, like a little olive oil, can further enhance this absorption.

Yes. The antioxidants in tomato juice, particularly lycopene, have also been linked to lowering LDL ('bad') cholesterol levels, which helps to prevent plaque buildup in arteries and improves overall blood flow.

When buying from a store, look for labels that explicitly state 'low sodium,' 'very low sodium,' or 'no salt added'. You can also make your own juice at home with fresh tomatoes to control the ingredients completely.