6 Foods that Lower Blood Pressure

While there are many prescription drugs on the market designed to decrease blood pressure, there are also quite a number of foods that can perform the same task to a certain degree. In fact, diets that are based on plants have been strongly linked to the cessation of hypertension. This article will go into great detail about six foods that lower blood pressure.

1. Celery

This food item comes highly recommended as an easily obtainable remedy for high blood pressure. According to research, just four celery stalks each day can be instrumental in treating hypertension. The food substance works well in this fight because it contains phtalides, chemicals which cause the arterial walls to relax. This relaxation produces an increase in blood flow which leads to a reduction in the blood pressure rate.

2. Fish with a Cold Water Origin

For years, the old woman’s tale has been that eating fish makes you smarter. Depending on who you ask, this belief could be a myth or it could be the truth. One of the actual truths is the consumption of cold water fish makes you healthier. Fish from this environment are naturally high in Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids provide health benefits by lowering blood pressure in their performance as pure blood thinners.

[box type=”note”]Researchers recommend two servings (approximate size – six ounces) of cold water fish each week to receive the full benefits of the Omega-3 acids. The best supply of Omega-3 is found in halibut, sardines, tuna, mackerel, salmon (wild), cod, trout, and herring.[/box]

3. Broccoli

Broccoli is literally a nutritional wonder. It is packed full of vitamin C, fiber, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Each of these nutrients plays a huge role in keeping blood pressure at a normal level. Studies show that people who receive the most benefits from broccoli consumption are those who eat at least one serving of the vegetable each day. Since broccoli is a good accompaniment to many dishes and even makes a tasty juice, it can easily be incorporated into a person’s diet.

4. Dandelions

All over the planet, people make use of dandelions for their healing properties. What many individuals do not realize is the true value of consuming dandelions. Not only are they good for the liver, skin, and eyes, but dandelions are also very effective in terms of decreasing blood pressure.

As an organic diuretic, this plant orchestrates a removal of excess sodium from the body. When left unchecked, the sodium narrows blood vessel walls, and this in turn, creates hypertension. Dandelions go well in salads and in stir-fry. Dried, the greens also make a tasty tea. Use them in your diet as often as possible.

5. Whole Grain Oats

Hypertensive individuals who have switched from cereals with a wheat base to whole grain oats generally see a significant reduction in their blood pressure. The oats contain magnesium and fiber which help improve blood flow; they also slow down the process of atherosclerosis which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. A minimum of six servings of whole grain oats each week should be ingested by those who wish to use this food as part of their diets.

6. Berries

In terms of fiber and antioxidants, nothing beats berries. While all types of berries have nutritional worth, blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are great for blood pressure management. Blueberries contain pterostilbene, a compound that inhibits the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C, and raspberries are incredibly rich in fiber. One cup of berries each day is the suggested dietary amount.

There are many other foods and beverages you can consume that will help you maintain your blood pressure at a stable level. A few of those additional products are black beans, spinach, dark chocolate, and skim milk. Do not forget about celery, cold water fish, broccoli, dandelions, whole grain oats, and berries; as mentioned earlier, these are six foods that can help you lower your blood pressure. Equally important, they also provide you with numerous other health rewards.

[box type=”important”]*This article does not constitute medical advice. You should never alter your diet dramatically or stop taking prescription drugs without first consulting your physician.[/box]