Food That Lower Blood Pressure: An Overview
Research has shown that following the DASH
high blood pressure diet can both reduce the risk of developing
high blood pressure (also known as
hypertension) and lower an already-elevated blood pressure. In fact, it has been shown that by following the DASH eating plan and reducing one's intake of salt (sodium), blood pressure can be reduced by an amount similar to that seen with
blood pressure medicine.
Foods That Lower Blood Pressure: The DASH Diet
"DASH" stands for "Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension.
" This
diet for high blood pressure has been studied in several clinical trials examining the effects of food on blood pressure. Study results demonstrated that high blood pressures were reduced by an eating plan that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods and is low in saturated fat, total fat, and
cholesterol. The DASH high blood pressure diet includes:
- Whole grains
- Poultry
- Fish
- Nuts.
The diet has reduced amounts of:
- Fats
- Red meat
- Sweets
- Sugared beverages.
(Click DASH Diet for more information on the DASH eating plan and how to get started.)