High Blood Pressure – The Silent Killer

 

This edition will focus on what foods you CAN eat when it comes to weight loss & controlling blood pressure.  I am sure you have heard that food rich in potassium lowers blood pressure. Common foods name are bananas, potatoes, and orange juice.  Current evidence is showing that dietary potassium alone may not reduce blood pressure, but does play a synergistic role when combine with other elements of a healthy eating pattern.

 

The Basics   
Blood pressure is influenced by the health of the blood vessels.  Stepping on a garden hose restricts water flow and builds pressure.  The more relaxed and open the arteries and veins (called dilation) the easier blood can pass through. Conversely, the narrower and tighter the blood vessels (called constriction), the harder it is for blood to flow (placing more work on the heart).

 

Know Your Numbers
Check your blood pressure at home regularly. Invest in a digital blood pressure monitor. The machines at local grocery stores may not provide the same accuracy.  Many people do not feel bad when blood pressure is high, hence the term “the silent killer”. Some people do report not feeling well when pressure is elevated.
Less than 120/80 mmHg is normal blood pressure (read as 120 over 80)
120-139/80-89 mmHg is pre-hypertension (this is your warning to take ACTION)
140/90 mmHg or higher is hypertension

 

Focusing on Food: Blood Pressure Protectors

  • Dark green leafy vegetables, such as arugula, spinach, and Swiss chard
  • Beets, celery, fennel, leeks, kohlrabi and the herbs cress, chervil and parsley
  • Berries
  • Winter squash, white and sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and tomato products (low-sodium juice and sauce)
  • Bananas, citrus fruit, fresh or dried apricots, and raisins
  • Legumes and nuts
  • Dark chocolate (not milk chocolate!)
  • Green and black tea
  • Milk and dairy products (Almond and rice milk are not dairy products!)

 

 

Summary
Adapting a healthy eating a rich in various types of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, low fat dairy, lean meat, and healthy fats within your specific calorie needs is the key for overall wellness and high energy!

Stay tuned for weekly BLOGs on foods to eat more and/or less of to support weight loss, heart health, and reduce sodium intake!

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