Untreated high blood pressure can increase the risk of serious health problems
Limiting salt has long been considered a key way to lower blood pressure. But new research shows that some foods may be even more effective and easy to introduce into your diet. The Daily Express website reports that.
Which foods lower blood pressure
People with high blood pressure are often advised to reduce their salt intake to 5g per day.
Dr Anita Leighton from the University of Waterloo in Canada developed a mathematical model that found that increasing the ratio of potassium to sodium intake in the diet may be more effective at lowering blood pressure than simply reducing sodium intake.
Consuming large amounts of salt can lead to water retention in the body, which puts extra pressure on blood vessel walls. It can also damage the blood vessels in the kidneys.
A study suggests that adding more potassium-rich foods to your diet, such as bananas or broccoli, may have a greater positive effect on your blood pressure than simply cutting back on salt.
Potassium and sodium are electrolytes – substances that help the body send electrical signals to contract muscles, affect the amount of water in the body and perform other important functions.
Untreated high blood pressure can increase the risk of serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
What can raise your blood pressure dramatically
A sudden increase in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis) can be caused by several factors. The most common of these are:
- stress or strong emotional excitement – stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, which contributes to vasoconstriction and increased blood pressure
- alcohol, caffeine or drugs – stimulants can significantly increase blood pressure
- physical overload – intense physical activity can raise blood pressure, especially in people with cardiovascular disease.
- kidney disorders – the kidneys play an important role in regulating blood pressure, and their pathology can contribute to blood pressure spikes.
- Hormonal disorders – for example, pheochromocytoma (adrenal tumour) or thyroid problems.
- pain – severe pain can also cause a sudden increase in blood pressure
