ECR's Top 5: Foods that cause high blood pressure

ECR's Top 5: Foods that cause high blood pressure

The reality is that it is important to eat healthily...

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High blood pressure is also known as hypertension. It is a challenging condition to diagnose because it has few symptoms. If it's untreated, it could lead to serious health problems. 

Here are five foods to avoid if you want to lower your blood pressure:

1. Salt

When you consume salt, your body retains more fluid and boosts your blood pressure via raising blood volume and artery pressure. Potassium-rich leafy greens - spinach, broccoli, kale, and collards, assist the body to remove salt through urine while also relaxing blood vessels.

Read more: There's now a salt gun that takes on cockroaches...

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2. Red meat

Red meat like beef, lamb, goat etc. can all raise blood pressure. As a result, red meat should be eaten in moderation or with leaner slices.

Read more: Would you eat a lion burger, some zebra sushi, or a tiger taco?

3. Saturated fat in processed meals

Trans fats are synthetic fats that extend the shelf life and stability of packaged goods. Eating these trans fats raises low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol while decreasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, increasing the risk of hypertension. 

LDL cholesterol causes the body to clog and harden the arteries, increasing the risk of blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes. Things like fried meals, margarine, pork, and dairy are all items to avoid.

Read more: Heidi Montag eats uncooked bison heart as part of her 'raw meat diet'

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4. Alcohol

Drinking too much alcohol can cause the muscles in your blood vessels to contract, as well as narrowing them. When your blood vessels become narrow, your heart has to work harder to circulate blood throughout your body, which raises your blood pressure.

Read more: Signs that you are addicted to alcohol

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5. Sugar/sweetened beverages 

Overdoing the consumption of sugar/sweetened beverages has been linked to an increased risk of hypertension. While a sweet beverage now and again is fine, drinking a lot of it might raise blood pressure.

Read more: Coca-cola sugar cuts will reduce diabetes

Disclaimer: Health-related information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor on any health-related issues.

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