High blood pressure or hypertension increases the risk of having serious health conditions like a stroke, a heart attack, aneurysm, or kidney disease, among others. Some of the risk factors include obesity, inactivity, smoking, stress, and of course, poor diet.
While conventional doctors prescribe a number of medications to control blood pressure, you should be warned that there are some serious side effects such as headaches, weakness, flushing, breathing difficulties, swelling, and more.
Now, you may think that food is a major enemy when dealing with high blood pressure, but the truth is, food may actually be the very thing that can help you control it. Excited to know what you can actually eat to lower your blood pressure? Here are your top choices:
- Garlic
Garlic is high in allicin, a compound released when you crush, chop, or chew a clove. According to studies, garlic works as well as conventional medications in lowering blood pressure when consumed on a daily basis for six months.
- Almonds and Cashews
These magnesium-rich nuts play an essential role in maintaining healthy levels of blood pressure. Munching on a cup of almonds and cashews already gives an amazing 360 milligrams of magnesium, which definitely meets the recommended daily allowance (RDA).
- Kale
This leafy vegetable is a superstar these days with dieticians and doctors raving about its wonderful health benefits. Aside from magnesium, kale is also rich in potassium which is proven to enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of magnesium. It is also rich in vitamin C!
- Pomegranate
This flavourful fruit is a great source of antioxidant polyphenols, like anthocyanins, tannins, and ellagic acid. According to research, these are the reasons behind pomegranate’s ability to treat hypertension. Pomegranate juice is found to decrease blood platelets’ stickiness as well as lower blood pressure.
- Green Tea
Green tea has lots of polyphenols that promote healthy blood pressure. In some studies, green tea is also credited for significant blood pressure reduction in participants suffering from hypertension.
Is your blood pressure reaching unhealthy levels? Find relief in knowing that these foods are on your side in your journey to reaching healthy levels of blood pressure. Before you start popping pills to stabilize your erratic blood pressure levels, consider a healthier alternative that would work just as effectively, if not more! You can also visit Sloan Natural Health Center to discuss certain programs that can help you achieve optimal health in no time!
