High Blood Pressure: What to eat and what to avoid?

Sushmita Panda

Sep 28, 2023

When blood pressure is higher than normal it is called high blood pressure or hypertension.

People from with high blood pressure can benefit from a diet that is low in added salts and sugars and limits the intake of red meats, processed foods, saturated fats, and alcohol.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), of the estimated 220 million people in India living with hypertension, only 12% have their blood pressure under control

This may lead to increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and numerous other health problems.

What to eat if you have high blood pressure? – You should eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains– You should follow the DASH Diet which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension and it is one of the most effective dietary ways to lower your blood pressure.

What to eat if you have high blood pressure? – You should eat potassium-rich food like apricots, avocados, melons (cantaloupe or honeydew), fat-free or low-fat dairy products, spinach and greens, fish, and legumes– You should also eat mushrooms, oranges/orange juice, potatoes, prunes/prune juice, raisins and dates and tomatoes– Ground flaxseed is also helpful

What you avoid if you have high blood pressure? – Highly processed foods– saturated fats– salt– fried food– excessive alcohol– Diets high in sodium– Processed meats– Fatty meats– Grapefruit as it can negatively interact with high blood pressure medication