High blood pressure, medically referred to as hypertension, is a chronic condition that develops when pressure within your blood vessels increases. Elevations in your blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attacks and rupture of the vessels. Although high blood pressure is usually treated with medications, health care professionals often recommend dietary changes. Adjusting your diet to exclude foods that raise blood pressure can improve your health.
Foods with Sodium
As a salt ingredient, sodium contributes to spikes in high blood pressure. According to the American Association of Family Physicians, you should limit your sodium consumption to no more than 1,500 mg daily. Foods containing high sodium levels include canned soups, potato chips, frozen dinners and other processed foods. As a health measure, check nutrition labels for sodium levels. You should also avoid adding salt to your food.
Foods with Sugar
Foods with high sugar content can contribute to obesity, a leading cause of high blood pressure, notes "Cholesterol Cures" by Dr. William Castelli. Sugary foods such as ice cream, cake and cookies, contain high calories and sugar amounts. Excess calories are stored by your body as fat. Obese patients are also at risk of cardiovascular complications and continuously high blood pressure levels.
Meat
Red meat contains saturated fat, which is harmful to your blood vessels and heart. The American Heart Association reports trans and saturated fat are linked to cardiovascular disease. This includes meat such as organ meats, beef, pork and dark meat. Instead of red meat, consume meat sources of protein such as chicken breast, fish and seafood.
Caffeine
According to MayoClinic.com, caffeine should be restricted or limited if you have high blood pressure. Caffeine consumption causes blood pressure spikes in some hypertension sufferers, which can trigger blood vessel or heart damage. Limit your caffeine intake to no more than 200 mg daily. Caffeine is found in carbonated beverages, coffee, tea and foods with crushed coffee beans.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org: High Blood Pressure: Things You Can Do to Help Lower Yours
- MayoClinic.com: 10 Ways to Control High Blood Pressure Without Medication
- American Heart Association: Saturated Fats
- Harvard School of Public Health: Carbohydrates
- MayoClinic.com: Dietary Fats: Know Which to Choose
- "Cholesterol Cures"; Dr. William Castelli; 2007
