Diets for High Blood Pressure: Which Foods Help Lower Blood Pressure
Today, approximately 75 million of America's total population have high blood pressure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in every three American adults suffers from this condition, and not everyone who has it knows that they are actually at risk because signs and symptoms are not always noticeable.
High blood pressure is the major cause of stroke and heart attack, so it shouldn't be taken lightly. This condition is a cause for alarm and should be addressed before it gets worse.
Diet plays a vital role in preventing high blood pressure. While eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products are necessary to maintaining blood pressure, there are certain foods that are known to have the natural ability to significantly lower blood pressure levels.
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Research in the Natural Medicine Journal revealed that eating muffins and bagels with flaxseed is beneficial for people with high blood pressure. Flaxseed, which can be added to oatmeal or cereal, is considered today as one of the most effective foods in the reduction of systolic blood pressure.
If consumed every day for at least eight weeks, blueberries are also effective in reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. As blueberries maintain an individual's blood pressure, it also helps reduce the stiffness of the arteries.
Aside from flaxseed and blueberries, beans are also known for their natural ability to keep blood pressure levels down. Beans are packed with fiber and have no cholesterol and very little fat, making them perfect for the heart. It is advised, however, to not overeat beans since it could also cause indigestion.
People who eat five or more servings of yogurt every week are also shown to have a lower risk of suffering from high blood pressure later in life. Based on a research presented at the American Heart Association's Epidemiology/Lifestyle 2016 Scientific Sessions, the intake of yogurt helps in the prevention of stroke.
Lastly, dark chocolate, which is known as the healthiest variety of chocolate, helps reduce blood pressure. A study conducted at Walden University in Minneapolis found that people who regularly eat dark chocolates have lower blood pressure levels than those who don't.
