How Diet Can Help You Manage Blood Pressure

Do you  freak out over hypertension or high blood pressure?  

Calm down and know that it’s not an unmanageable condition. 

In fact, making some super easy lifestyle changes and following a healthy diet can greatly improve your condition. There is no denying the fact that diet plays a crucial role in managing blood pressure. 

Let’s take a look at how.

1. Reducing Sodium

One of the best ways to lower your blood pressure is by reducing the amount of sodium in your diet. Choosing to buy low sodium alternatives for most of your beverages and food items goes a long way. 

One of the great ways to reduce sodium intake is by cutting down on processed foods. Use spices and herbs to enhance the flavor of your food instead of adding more salt. However, it takes time for your food pallet to adjust. So instead of being drastic with the change, slowly ease into it by reducing the amount of sodium gradually.

2. Eating Berries

Did you know that berries comprise anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant compound? Berries, especially strawberries and blueberries reduce the risk of blood pressure due to the presence of anthocyanins. 

You can enjoy them as a sweet post-meal or cherish the juicy gems as a healthy snack. This will also help reduce sugar cravings. As we all know, reducing added sugar works wonders for our health!

3. Incorporating Leafy Greens

Rich in nitrates and other vital nutrients, green vegetables are a boon for managing blood pressure. It’s a good idea to incorporate one or two servings of leafy green vegetables into your regular diet. Some examples include fennel, kale, spinach, lettuce, Swiss chard, mustard greens, and so on.

4. Increasing Fruit intake

Bananas are rich in potassium which plays an important role in balancing blood pressure. Kiwis improve blood pressure due to the presence of Vitamin C. Watermelon contains citrulline, an essential amino acid beneficial for people with hypertension. 

All in all, adding these fruits to your diet can help you manage blood pressure. You can eat them on their own or add them to smoothies and salads as a treat to your taste buds.

5. Eating Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 free fatty acids, primarily found in Salmon, decrease oxylipins, a compound that constricts blood vessels. Combined with inflammation reduction properties, Omega-3 fatty acids help regulate blood pressure.

6. Eating More Lentils and Beans

Lentils and beans are rich in potassium and magnesium, and fiber. These nutrients are known to regulate blood pressure levels. People with hypertension are advised to incorporate more lentils and beans into the diet.

7. Cut Down on Caffeine

Even though we love the rush caffeine gives our body, too much caffeine intake isn’t good for blood pressures. Most people are caffeine sensitive when it comes to its blood pressure increasing effects. 

Therefore, to manage high blood pressure or hypertension, it’s advisable to cut down on caffeine and look for alternatives to your daily cup of Joe. How about some soothing teas?

8. Including More Fermented Food Items In Your Diet

Fermented food items contain probiotics that help maintain good gut health. Some easily available fermented foods include yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and South Indian dishes such as idli and dosa. If possible, also add kombucha and kimchi to your regular diet.

9.Pistachios

Pistachios are highly beneficial nuts that are packed with heart health boosting nutrients such as potassium. Combined with a low to moderate fat diet, they help in regulating blood pressure. They have a compound that reduces tightness in blood vessels which makes it a great dietary addition if you have hypertension.

10. Tomatoes and Carrots

Tomatoes contain lycopene, a pigment associated with a reduction in the risk of heart disease. Since high blood pressure is a massive risk factor, including tomatoes in your diet can be beneficial. On the other hand, carrots contain high amounts of phenolic compounds and caffeic acid. They reduce inflammation and relax the blood vessels, thereby, helping regulate blood pressure.

Conclusion

This was a brief about how certain additions and modifications in your diet can help you manage blood pressure. However, every person has a different kind of metabolism. This calls for a custom diet plan. After all, irregular blood pressure doesn’t go away with a one-size-fits-all approach.

That’s why it is advisable to consult a professional nutritionist who offers customized meal plans. Speaking of whom, at Sonali Malik, we believe diet and nutrition is a lifestyle requirement.  that help people positively transform the way they live. 

Instead of suggesting fad diets or starvation meals, we encourage striking a balance with your body type and lifestyle. At Sonali Malik, we  prescribe a nutrient-rich diet strictly according to your body’s needs. It’s high time people start realizing the importance of good nutrition and help their health with the food they eat.

Also Read: 7 Benefits of Working with an Online Dietitian or Nutritionist