6 Foods to Skip If You Have High Blood Pressure

Eating, it’s more than just a routine, right? Every bite you take is like a tiny decision at a crossroads: will it give your blood pressure a little lift, or help bring it back down?

High blood pressure is a major health problem in the U.S., with nearly 1 in 2 U.S. adults, or about 108 million people, affected, according to the National Institutes of Health. 

But here’s the thing: what you put on your plate can be a game-changer when it comes to managing it. As health pioneer Dr. Ann Wigmore wisely said, “The food you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison.” Sounds pretty intense, but, indeed, what you eat matters more than you think!”

Full-fat dairy products

Whole milk, cream, and cheeses are high in saturated fats, which can boost LDL, bad cholesterol, and make it harder to control blood pressure. Switching to low-fat or fat-free dairy is a smart move.

Processed and packaged foods

Processed and packaged foods are a major culprit when it comes to high sodium intake. In fact, over 70% of the sodium Americans consume comes from processed and packaged foods, not from salt added during cooking or at the table, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Salty snacks 

Salty snacks are a common source of sodium in the typical American diet. Just one ounce of potato chips can contain 150-200 mg of sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure. The AHA strongly recommends choosing low-sodium or unsalted options to help keep your blood pressure in check. 

Red and processed meats

Red and processed meats are loaded with sodium. The National Institutes of Health notes that diets high in red and processed meats are associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure. Reducing consumption of these meats can help lower the risk of hypertension.

Alcohol

Guidelines recommend no more than one drink per day for women and two for men. People who drink above these levels are twice as likely to have uncontrolled hypertension.

Sugary beverages

Sugary drinks like soda, sweetened teas, and energy drinks are not just packed with sugar; they also contribute to weight gain and higher blood pressure.ResearchGate concludes that the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with higher blood pressure. Cutting out sugary drinks is an easy, proven strategy to reduce hypertension risk.

Key takeaway

To manage high blood pressure, focus on cutting back on unhealthy foods. They not only contribute to high sodium and unhealthy fats but also make it harder to control blood pressure. By making these small changes, you’ll be on your way to healthier, happier living!

Read the original article on Crafting Your Home.