Foods that Help Lower Blood Pressure
By Sara Butler
High blood pressure is a very serious condition. What is truly frightening about it is that many people are unaware they have it because symptoms don’t usually surface until it’s been happening for quite some time. This is why high blood pressure is called a silent killer. But the good news is you can take measures to lower your blood pressure naturally; one of the best ways to do that is through your diet. Here are some foods you can add to your diet that have been found to naturally lower blood pressure.
Mangoes
Sweet treats like mangoes are essential to keep you sane. Just because you’re trying to eat healthy doesn’t mean you can’t have any flavor! Mangoes are a great source of fiber and beta-carotene. Both of these nutrients have been found to help lower blood pressure. If you don’t care for raw mangoes, consider freezing them and then blending them into a homemade sorbet. Sounds perfect for the hot summer days ahead!
Salmon
Salmon is very good for you on several levels since the omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon help to lower your risk of heart disease and reduce inflammation in your body. It also happens to be a great tool in lowering your blood pressure naturally. When in doubt, go with salmon!
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are packed full of healthy Vitamin C. In fact, a bell pepper has more Vitamin C than many citrus fruits with fewer calories too. Vitamin C has been found to improve the function of the heart as well as lower blood pressure. So feel free to munch to your healthy heart’s content on these vegetables.
Apples
The term “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” actually may be rooted in fact! Apples can have a positive impact on blood pressure. They’re full of fiber and quercetin, a potent antihypertensive. So, munch on apples – skin and all – to help you keep your blood pressure in check. But be sure to wash the apple thoroughly before consuming it.
Carrots
Carrots are high in beta-carotene, making them like blood pressure medication in delicious disguise. They give you both beta-carotene and Vitamin C, like their vegetable cousin the bell pepper, so make sure you work some carrots into your heart-healthy diet.
Blood pressure is a serious issue, so make sure you have your monitored regularly and do something about it if it starts to creep up! It’s a health concern that should always be in the back of your mind.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Spartanburg, S.C.