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Now, Unilever (NYSE: UN) is introducing the first functional shot that mayhelp close the potassium gap. Promise(R) SuperShots(R) for blood pressure areessential fruit blend functional shots that provide a good source of potassiumand are low in sodium. Each three-ounce Promise(R) SuperShots(R) contains 350mg of potassium, similar to the amount contained in a serving of a fruit thatis a good source of potassium, such as a small banana. Promise(R)SuperShots(R) fruit blends come in three delicious flavors: strawberry banana,peach apricot, and mixed berry.
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"High blood pressure is a major public health concern in the UnitedStates. But there is the potential to save many lives and significantlyreduce health care costs associated with this disease if more Americans wouldincrease their consumption of potassium and lower their intake of sodium eachday," said Katherine Brooking, MS, Registered Dietitian.
According to a scientific statement from the American Heart Association'sNutrition Committee, daily intake of 4,700 mg of potassium is an effectivedietary change to lower blood pressure. Diets high in potassium help toremove excess sodium from the body. More than 30 studies and several meta-analyses of these studies have shown that increasing dietary potassium levelsto a target of 4,700 mg a day, as part of a diet low in sodium, can reduceblood pressure across a range of ages and ethnic backgrounds.(3,4,5)
The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan provides4,700 mg of potassium per day for a 2,100 calorie diet.(6) The DASH dietarypattern is now recommended by all U.S. health organizations as an effectivedietary pattern for lowering blood pressure. DASH emphasizes fruits,vegetables, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, nuts and legumes. It ispreferable to get potassium from the diet, as foods that are good sources ofpotassium usually contain other important nutrients.
Promise(R) SuperShots(R) are consistent with the DASH eating plan sincethey are made with fruit, contain a good source of potassium per serving, arelow in sodium, and are fat and cholesterol free.
"Promise(R) SuperShots(R) were designed to help adults who are concernedabout managing their risk of high blood pressure by adding more potassium totheir diet," said Douglas Balentine, Ph.D., Director of Nutrition and Healthat Unilever North America. "Many Americans find it hard to not only get enoughpotassium but also from the recommended sources. This product line fits withthe DASH eating plan and is an easy and convenient way to get closer to therecommended daily amount of potassium. This new product innovation is anexample of Unilever's commitment to helping people stay healthy longer."
For the past 40 years, Promise's mission has been to deliver deliciousfoods to promote a healthy lifestyle. Within the product portfolio,Promise(R) has heart healthy products which help people maintain heart healthor lower their cholesterol. Healthy lifestyle information, education andrecipes can be found at www.promisehealthyheart.com.
"Promise(R) SuperShots(R) are a significant addition to our Promise(R)brand of products, and the second in our growing line of vitality shotproducts in the United States," said Eric Berman, Brand Director, Promise(R)."We believe that we can empower consumers to take
