20 Foods For High Blood Pressure
After being diagnosed with high blood
pressure, alongside taking my medication, I started incorporating more
of these foods into my daily meals. In the process, I discovered that
eating a healthy diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low
fat dairy have kept my cholesterol levels and blood pressure levels in
check. Here are 20 power foods that will lower your blood pressure
naturally.
1. Peas
Peas are a good source of vitamins and
folic acid, providing overall cardiovascular support, making them a
perfect food to prevent high blood pressure.
2. Potatoes
Although potatoes are known to be high in
starch, more evidence is pointing to their beneficial properties when
consumed in reasonable amounts. UK scientists believe that a compound
found in potatoes, known as kukoamine, may potentially lower blood
pressure.
3. Celery
Celery can help your heart and your veins
function better. Consequently, celery can help keep your blood pressure
levels in check.
4. Green Beans
Green beans are a good source of vitamin C, fiber and potassium - all of which can lower your blood pressure.
5. Papaya
Papaya is a fantastic source of vitamin C.
It also contains a large quantity of amino acids and is rich in
potassium - all contributing to a healthy heart and lower blood pressure
levels.
6. Oats
Start your morning off with a healthy bowl
of oatmeal - a fantastic option to keep your blood pressure in check. Be
sure to stay away from flavored types that contain sugar, as it will
only raise your blood glucose levels and negate some of the effect.
7. Yogurt
Yogurt is a good source of potassium,
magnesium and calcium - three nutrients that enable you to keep your fat
content low, which in turn may help keep your blood pressure in check.
To get the most out of the health benefits of yogurt, combine it with
one of the foods on this list.
8. Tomatoes
Blood pressure is one of the things
tomatoes have been shown to help with. To get the most of tomatoes, it's
best to eat them close to raw, without much processing or cooking.
9. Kiwi
Research has shown that eating three kiwis a
day can help keep your blood pressure from becoming a problem. Though
this may not seem convenient, alternatively, you may pair one kiwi with
other foods on this list - particularly those rich in antioxidants.
10. Blueberries
Like raspberries, blueberries are packed
with antioxidants, which in turn have a direct impact on your blood
pressure. For a nutritious breakfast and a healthy start to your day,
combine blueberries with other foods that combat high blood pressure.
11. Spinach
Spinach is packed with nutrients and
contains antioxidants helping your body repair damage from free
radicals, often caused by stress. Add it to a smoothie, giving your body
a boost in lowering your blood pressure.
12. Avocados
Avocados help fend off high blood pressure
in many ways. They are a good source of potassium, fiber and are high in
monounsaturated fats, all of which will help keep your blood pressure
stabilized.
13. Prunes
Studies show that prunes are especially
good for the body, particularly in maintaining blood pressure. They are
knows to significantly reduce LDL 'bad' cholesterol in the body, hence
lowering blood pressure, and are also a good source of fiber, relieving
constipation.
14. Carrots
Carrots contain antioxidants and are also a good source of potassium - two major supporters of normal blood pressure levels.
15. Wild Salmon
Wild salmon contains omega-3s which prevent
the blood from clotting, thus improving the circulatory system. Wild
salmon is also thought to ward off heart attacks, making it an excellent
food for keeping your blood pressure in check.
16. Watermelon
Watermelon contains L-citrulline, which helps relax your arteries, thus lowering blood pressure levels.
17. Raisins
Snack on raisins between meals to reap
their health benefits. They are a fantastic source of potassium - just
be sure to get the raw, natural kind, without added sugar.
18. Dark Chocolate
The antioxidants found in good-quality dark
chocolate can help fend off free radicals, thus controlling blood
pressure. Just be sure to control your portions, limiting your daily
intake.
19. Beans
It has long been known that beans are
excellent at balancing blood sugar levels. Adding to this, however,
recent findings have also suggested that beans have a positive effect on
blood pressure levels.
20. Spices
Keeping your blood pressure down does not
mean that you need to sacrifice flavor. Several spices are known to keep
the body in a relaxed state, helping your circulatory system to
function optimally.
In the next post a full list of spices to lower BP.
In the next post a full list of spices to lower BP.