Hypertension, also called high blood pressure, has many causes, including genetic predisposition and other medical conditions and disorders. People can control or lower the risk of developing hypertension symptoms by reducing or eliminating the amount of unhealthy foods in their diet. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, foods that contribute to hypertension include high-calorie, high-sugar, salty foods, alcoholic beverages and high-fat foods.
Salt
Salt added to prepared foods and cooking water contributes to sodium levels that can increase the development of hypertension symptoms and elevate blood pressure, reports the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The worst high sodium foods include: fast-food, condiments, such as pickles, relishes and olives; cold cuts and cured meats, such as bacon and ham; canned foods, such as soups, fish and meat; and most canned products. Frozen prepared foods are not recommended for hypertension patients unless they are labeled "low in sodium." Salty foods are especially dangerous for African Americans, diabetics and older hypertension patients who are prone to other high blood pressure-causing conditions, such as kidney disease, states the University of Maryland Medical Center.
High-Calorie Foods
Because being overweight can increase blood pressure, hypertension patients must avoid high-calorie foods that can contribute to weight gain, explains the University of Southern California. Foods that are high in sugar and fat are usually extremely high in calories. Hypertension patients who have problems controlling their weight should eliminate or limit their intake of fatty meats, butter, margarine, peanut butter, condiments, sour cream, gravy, prepared salad dressings, cooking oils, whole-milk diary products, sodas and other sugary products. Most of these high calorie foods can be replaced with lower-fat varieties, such as skim milk, lean meats and fat-free diary products. Portion reduction is another way to cut calories of high-calorie foods.
Alcoholic Beverages
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, drinking more than three alcoholic beverages daily can contribute to increasing hypertension levels. This occurs because excessive alcohol consumption prevents nutrients from reaching the heart because it interferes with blood flow functions. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends hypertension patients reduce or restrict their alcohol consumption to lower high blood pressure levels.
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