John Myers
Poor diet is a major reason for high blood pressure. Therefore, blood pressure can often be lowered with the right diet. Which foods work against high blood pressure?
High blood pressure is one of the diseases of civilization – it is a frequent long-term consequence of eating too much and not exercising enough. Excess energy from food is stored in the fat deposits, and being overweight increases the risk of cardiovascular problems. Losing weight helps: For every 10 kilograms of weight loss, blood pressure drops by around 12:8 mmHg. Belly fat in particular needs to go.
Vegetables and olive oil as “natural antihypertensives”
The so-called Mediterranean cuisine is ideal for high blood pressure. This does not mean pizza and pasta, but sufficient vegetables, fruit, and fish, as well as good oils. Olive oil, garlic, lamb’s lettuce, kale, horseradish, spinach, beetroot, asparagus, white beans, peas, apricots, rhubarb, as well as pistachios, walnuts, coconut milk, and tomato paste are considered to be “natural blood pressure reducers”.
Herbs instead of salt
Since almost half of those affected by high blood pressure are sensitive to salt, it is important to keep a close eye on their daily salt intake. The amount of salt in bread, rolls, and crispbread is often underestimated. Overall, salt consumption should be a maximum of five grams per day. On average, many people in Germany use almost twice as much salt.
Ready meals should be avoided, as they usually contain far too much salt. Better to cook it yourself and season it with herbs. If you want to be quick, pre-cut frozen food is highly recommended. But it is important to choose frozen foods without the addition of butter, sugar/honey/sweeteners, cream, or sauce.
If you have high blood pressure, drink lots of calories
Also, pay attention to your drinks: the body needs enough fluids and the right ones. Switch from juices or soft drinks to water and herbal teas, and drink little alcohol: no more than 1 glass of wine or a small beer.
