Foods For Hypertensive Patients

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a serious condition that describes the excessive force of blood upon the walls of the blood vessels. Chronic hypertension results in the weakening of the blood vessels, which in time increases the chances for blood clots to occur and can lead to heart attack or stroke. There is no common cause for hypertension, and it is usually brought about by a combination of factors including genetics, lifestyle and environment. Besides medications, lifestyle modifications including dietary and nutritional intake can have a significant impact on blood pressure. To this extent, certain food choices are recommended for people living with hypertensive disorder.

Lean Protein

Diets that are high in saturated fats and cholesterol are detrimental to people with hypertension. Fats and cholesterol contribute to the formation of plaques within the blood vessel walls, thereby reducing the available space for blood to flow through and increasing outward pressure. Many cuts of meat are full of saturated fats and cholesterol, so sufferers should select leaner protein sources. Lean protein choices include beef or pork tenderloin, skinless poultry and fresh or frozen fish. It may also be beneficial to indulge in meatless meals several times a week to help reduce the overall fat and cholesterol content within the diet.

Whole Grain Foods

Foods that are made with whole wheat, barley or rye grains are considered to be heart-healthy foods. Whole grain foods are good sources of fiber that not only assists in the proper digestion of essential nutrients but it also helps the eater feel fuller for longer periods of time, thereby assisting with portion and weight control. Whole-grain foods are also richer in nutrients than refined and processed wheat products. In a clinical study published in the August 4, 2010 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," researchers determined that consumption of three portions of whole grain foods per day in middle-aged people significantly reduced blood pressure and thus the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Fruits and Vegetables

The Harvard School of Public Health reports that diets rich in fruits and vegetables help lower the risk of digestive problems, blood pressure, stroke and heart disease. Fruits and vegetables are full of essential nutrients and vitamins and are also good sources of protective compounds called antioxidants. They suggest that everyone should get about four and half cups of fruits and vegetables per day.

Low-Sodium Foods

Sodium is needed by the body for several functions, including the maintenance of water distribution in and out of tissues. Diets that are rich in salt increase the blood concentration of sodium and disrupt the water balance, which leads to increases in blood pressure. One of the most important proactive things that a person with hypertension can do to lower their blood pressure is to lower their salt intake. This can be achieved by using less salt in food preparations, avoiding prepared or frozen meals or other foods that use salt as a preservative, and to increase low-sodium foods in their diets. According to the Heart Lung & Blood Institute, people should try to consume as little as 2,400 milligrams of sodium or less per day.