10 foods to lower blood pressure
If the causes of high blood pressure are not clearly identified, we know that lifestyle habits, especially food, can clearly influence the balance. To reduce high blood pressure, certain foods can help if eaten as part of a proper diet (less fat, less salt, less sugar, etc.) and monitored by a doctor.
Broccoli
On an "anti-hypertensive" diet, it is essential to increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables, especially broccoli.
Broccoli is rich in calcium, magnesium, and potassium, and thus helps in regulating blood pressure [1].
In addition, its flavonoid content makes it a protective food against coronary artery disease that high blood pressure can lead to.
But be warned, they must be eaten raw or undercooked to benefit from their nutrients!
garlic
Garlic is the most famous natural remedy for treating high blood pressure in the world.
Garlic has been shown to reduce levels of bad cholesterol and high blood pressure, and works against atherosclerosis.
To enjoy its benefits, it will be necessary to eat at least 4 cloves per day. So, take it in capsules if that's not your thing!
sweet potato
Their richness in potassium, calcium and magnesium makes sweet potatoes a very good food to combat this problem that concerns one in five French people.
It is one of the carbohydrates with the lowest glycemic index, which also makes it a good source of energy that lasts all day.
Yogurt
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Minnesota revealed the benefits of yogurt against high blood pressure [1].
These researchers studied the diet of 2,000 volunteers and came to the conclusion that regular consumption of yogurt would reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure by 31% thanks to the calcium it contains.
Choose real yogurt, with probiotics, mixed with oatmeal and fruit for a healthy breakfast or snack!
raw almonds
How about eating a handful of almonds when you're hungry instead of eating a dessert?
With its richness in potassium, magnesium and unsaturated fatty acids, almonds are excellent for your health and help you maintain a good level of blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels.
cacao
Cocoa is rich in flavonoids, which help the body better deal with stress (a common cause of high blood pressure) and protect against heart disease.
Cocoa is also high in magnesium and potassium. Lots of good reasons to eat chocolate...but dark, with at least 60% cocoa to take advantage of its benefits!
turmeric
Turmeric is the trending health spice right now!
And for good reason, its health benefits are numerous: anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory or reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, it is almost a miracle condiment!
Although its effects against high blood pressure are not scientifically proven, its anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory properties are undoubtedly beneficial for blood pressure.
But beware of interactions with anticoagulants!
Banana
Bananas contain three minerals that protect the cardiovascular system: magnesium, potassium and calcium.
Bananas are also packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins B and C: the perfect cocktail for a little boost!
artichoke
Artichoke is considered a real grandmother's remedy for lowering blood pressure.
First, because it contains good amounts of potassium, and secondly, because it is very useful for the liver thanks to its diuretic properties that allow the removal of excess fluid in the body, which lowers arterial blood pressure.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a vegetable with a powerful antioxidant power, and contain many vitamins and amino acids that can gradually help protect the heart and reduce blood pressure.
But it especially contains potassium, which prevents increased stress.