10 Foods That Will Lower Your Blood Pressure

by | Nov 1, 2012 | Health Habits, Nutrition Support, Uncategorized

If you don’t have high blood pressure, you know some who does. That is how common this serious condition has become in our society. To lower high blood pressure or help reduce your risk of developing this precursor to heart disease and strokes, incorporate these 10 foods into your regular diet.

Chocolate

I knew the first food would grab your attention. Yes, eating chocolate will lower blood pressure that is already high and help prevent the onset of the disease, but there’s a catch: the chocolate has to be dark chocolate and eaten in small amount (2 ounces per day). The nitric oxide content in dark chocolate helps relax the muscles and allow blood to flow easier.

Apples

One raw apple or half a cup of apple sauce eaten daily will help prevent hypertension or reduce blood pressure if you already have the condition. Apples are rich in fiber which helps keep blood pressure stable. A baked apple with a dash of cinnamon will also do the trick. Apple sauce can be substituted for some of the sugar in many home baked goods, lowering the sugar content while increasing the fiber content.

Avocados

Avocados contain healthy fat and are rich in potassium, both of which work to lower blood pressure. Add a couple slices of fresh avocado to a daily salad or mix into a healthy vegetable dip.

Fish

Salmon, tuna, halibut and sardines are rich in potassium and omega-3 fatty acids which reduce inflammation within the body, including the arteries, and help keep blood pressure low. Fresh or canned fish work equally well for improving heart health.

Nuts

Almonds, walnuts and pistachios are high in saturated fats and antioxidants, both of which are good for the heart when eaten in moderation. 10 nuts per day, eaten as a snack or tossed on a salad, will help reduce hypertension.

Potatoes

White potatoes are a heart healthy food with their high fiber and potassium content. Prepare them baked or boiled, NOT fried, to derive the most heart healthy benefits from this food.

Garlic

Rich in vitamins A and C, garlic helps regulate blood flow and lower pressure. Eat one clove raw or cooked daily. If you can’t tolerate the taste of garlic, try a tasteless, odorless garlic supplement.

Spinach
This dark green leafy vegetable made Popeye strong by keeping his blood thin and flowing freely to his muscles. A rich source of folate and magnesium, half a cup of spinach daily will help keep pressure regulated and help prevent blood clots by keep blood naturally thin.

Turmeric

A prized Indian spice, turmeric gives Indian food it’s yellow color and spicy flavor. This herb will also improve blood circulation, lower cholesterol and purify blood. Turmeric can also be taken in capsule form.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar, also called ACV, is rich in vitamins and minerals which work together to remove toxins and excess salt from the liver and naturally lower blood pressure. ACV also relaxes the arteries to further lower blood pressure. Two teaspoons a day mixed with water and drank or used to dress salads is all that’s needed.