Hypertension is a major risk factor for serious cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack or stroke, as well as other conditions like kidney failure.
High blood pressure usually develops over time and can be caused by an improper diet, lack of physical activity, and certain health conditions, including diabetes and obesity.
Treatment for high blood pressure generally involves a combination of medications that are used to relax or widen blood vessels, along with dietary and lifestyle changes. In addition to foods that help lower blood pressure, experts have discovered what you should drink when you have high blood pressure.
Beet Juice
This colorful vegetable, low in calories, not only contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds, but it also helps lower blood pressure. Beetroot is rich in dietary nitrates, a compound known for its blood pressure-lowering effects.
Carrot Juice
Growing evidence suggests that consuming a glass of carrot juice daily can promote heart health. In a study, Japanese researchers evaluated the effects of drinking a glass of carrot juice daily on participants predisposed to heart disease.
They concluded that carrot juice improved both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as LDL cholesterol. Other recent studies have reported similar results in individuals with stage 1 hypertension and pregnant women.
Pomegranate Juice
Not only is pomegranate rich in nutrients such as folic acid and vitamin C, but it also has strong anti-inflammatory effects. It is not surprising that pomegranate juice has so many benefits for heart health. Several studies have found that consuming pomegranate juice can help lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
The effects on systolic blood pressure were independent of the duration for which participants consumed pomegranate juice, as well as the amount consumed. If you decide to include pomegranate juice in your diet, make sure it is 100% juice without added sugar.
Berry Juice
Like pomegranate, berries, especially blueberries, are known for their antioxidant properties. Consuming juice from berries or grapes can improve blood pressure. Consuming berries reduces both systolic blood pressure and LDL cholesterol.
Researchers have concluded that berries likely have cardiovascular benefits, but the role they play in preventing and controlling heart disease is still unclear. If you opt for store-bought berry juice, make sure it does not contain added sugar.
Blood Pressure Values Considered Dangerous
If blood pressure is often above 140/90, especially if it is 150/95 or higher and there are periodic crises, medication should be taken.
