Blood Pressure- easy way to lower it
This is said to be the number one food to lower blood pressure
As
per Indian Heart Association, one in every three Indian adults is
affected by high blood pressure. Thus, it comes as no surprise that
people are always in search for a natural remedy to lower their blood
pressure.
If you or someone in your family is suffering from high blood pressure, here is the best food to lower the readings.
The food is watermelon!
Watermelon checks so many necessary boxes when talked about its health benefits. The juicy sweet watermelon does not only hydrate you during summer but is also an effective remedy to help manage blood sugar level.
How watermelon can help control blood pressure
Watermelon is naturally sweet with no added sugar and is rich in three blood-pressure supporting nutrients - L-citrulline, lycopene and potassium.
The study
According to the study published in the American Journal of Hypertension, consuming watermelon could significantly reduce blood pressure in people who are overweight, due to the presence of L-citrulline.
L-citrulline
L-citrulline
encourages healthy blood pressure by producing nitric oxide, a gas that
supports flexibility in arteries and relaxes the blood vessels. This,
in turn, helps in lowering the blood pressure.
Consumption of watermelon has been linked with decreased in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Lycopene
Foods
that are red or pink in colour like tomatoes, guava and watermelon are
rich in lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant, which is linked with
having positive effects on high blood pressure and other cardiovascular
issues.
High serum lycopene levels have been associated with lower levels of hypertension in people who are overweight and obese.
American Heart Association recommends increasing potassium intake in adults with high blood pressure.
Other food to lower blood pressure
For people suffering from high blood pressure, it is recommended to follow a diet which is low in added sugar, saturated fats and sodium. It is also suggested to focus on foods like vegetables, fruits, whole-grains and nuts. All these foods have shown positive results in lowering blood pressure.