Exploring the impact of bioactive compounds on endothelial dysfunction in hypertensive individuals: a comprehensive systematic review

Systemic Arterial Hypertension is considered the main risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and is also associated with a pro-oxidative environment and endothelial alterations. The objective of this review was to evaluate the evidence available in the literature regarding the impact of resveratrol, quercetin, and catechin consumption on endothelial function in individuals with arterial hypertension. The search was conducted using the PICOS strategy across the following databases: Science Direct, Pubmed, Scielo, and Lilacs. The inclusion criteria comprised adults and the elderly of both sexes, with a body mass index above 18.5 kg/m², diagnosed with arterial hypertension. Resveratrol and quercetin were found to have a positive effect on the vascular endothelium by increasing flow-mediated dilation. Additionally, quercetin alone led to a reduction in blood pressure among hypertensive individuals. However, due to limitations in the available studies, it was not possible to reach a conclusive result regarding catechin. Further studies are needed to evaluate its effect. Therefore, including food sources rich in resveratrol and quercetin may prove beneficial for individuals with this chronic non-communicable disease.