The goal of this clinical trial is to determine whether hydroponic spinach (HS) versus conventional spinach (CS) smoothies produce differential post-consumption effects on salivary nitrate availability and blood pressure in adults.
The main questions it aims to answer are:
Do hydroponic spinach (HS) and conventional spinach (CS) smoothies produce differential post-consumption salivary nitrate availability responses in adults when consumed in equal volumes? Do hydroponic spinach (HS) and conventional spinach (CS) smoothies produce differential post-consumption blood pressure responses in adults when consumed in equal volumes?
Participants will:
Consume hydroponic spinach (HS) and conventional spinach (CS) smoothies on two separate study days.
Attend two laboratory visits at the university, scheduled within a 1-2 week period.
Undergo check-ups and study measurements during each visit (e.g., blood pressure and saliva sampling).
Adults aged 18-60 years
Generally healthy individuals (no diagnosed chronic disease)
Non-smokers and non-vapers
Not currently taking medications known to affect cardiovascular function or nitrate metabolism
Presence of chronic disease (e.g., cardiovascular, metabolic, renal, or respiratory conditions)
Use of pacemakers or implanted medical devices
Pregnant or lactating individuals
Known allergy or intolerance to spinach