Suffering From High Blood Pressure? These Five Foods Will Help

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6 years ago

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If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, or hypertension, more than likely your doctor has told you to take a look at your diet. Diets high in salt and processed foods can all lead to high blood pressure. While it may be tough to cut back or give up salty snacks, these five foods not only taste delicious, but they have all been found to help lower high blood pressure.
Dark Chocolate
According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, a study found that consuming a small amount of dark chocolate every day helped decrease hypertension by approximately 20 percent. Rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy flavonoids, dark chocolate not only helps those with hypertension, but it can also help lower your risk for diabetes and heart disease. Just be sure you’re consuming the right kind of dark chocolate. Look for brands that contain at least 70% cocoa.
Bananas
The humble banana is more than just an easy to grab, on-the-go snack. Packed full of potassium, bananas help lower high blood pressure by balancing the effects of salt on the body and helping the kidneys function properly. If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, or hypertension, add two bananas to your daily diet to help lower your score.
Watermelon
Not only does watermelon help with hydration, but it can also have a positive effect on high blood pressure thanks to its high natural levels of L-citrulline. According to WebMD, L-citrulline boosts nitric oxide production in the body, which in turn helps the arteries relax better-improving blood flow.
Egg Whites
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and whipping up some delicious egg whites will not only provide a substantial amount of protein to get your morning off on the right foot, but they also contain a peptide which helps with high blood pressure. According to Everyday Health, the peptide found in egg whites blocks production of an enzyme that raises blood pressure.
Raisins
Sweet enough to satisfy a sugar craving, raisins pack a powerful punch in lowering blood pressure. According to the Huffington Post, a study found that when pre-hypertensive participants snacked on raisins three times a day for 12 weeks, they had significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
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