Maintaining healthy blood pressure is crucial for overall well-being, yet many are unaware of how certain foods can subtly influence it. Today blood pressure classifications have changed If your diastolic blood pressure reading ( the bottom number ) is 85, you are considered hypertensive. Certain foods can influence your blood pressure
You need to avoid processed meats. Processed meats are a staple in many diets, but they’re also a significant source of hidden sodium, a known contributor to high blood pressure. Items such as ham, sausages, and bacon are not just rich in flavor; they’re packed with salt to enhance taste and preserve the product. This high sodium content can increase blood pressure, posing a risk to heart health. I can recall eating these processed meats as a child Regular consumption of these meats has been linked to chronic conditions like heart disease and stroke. It’s not just the amount of sodium that’s concerning but also the frequency of consumption
It would be nice to have a warm soup on these upcoming cold days Canned soups, often perceived as a convenient and healthy meal option, can be surprisingly high in sodium. This hidden sodium turns a seemingly wholesome choice into a potential risk for those monitoring their blood pressure. The contrast is stark when comparing homemade soups to their canned counterparts I rather prefer a good homemade soup over any canned soup.
Lastly you would think sugar substitutes are better than white sugar. These are even worse at times. In addition to the growing cancer concern with these substitutes , you must watch for potential risks of increasing your blood pressure. Artificial sweeteners, often found in foods and beverages, are marketed as a healthier alternative to sugar, but their impact on blood pressure is a subject of growing concern. These sweeteners, such as aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin, are prevalent in many ‘diet’ or ‘light’ products, offering sweetness without the calories. However, recent studies suggest that these substitutes may have their own health implications, including potential effects on blood pressure.
So what I am saying, Eat wisely…
Until tomorrow…