High Blood Pressure Foods | Those who have high amounts of fatty tissue in their bodies suffer from high blood pressure because their hearts are forced to work harder to pump blood all throughout the body.
High blood pressure can lead to problems with diabetes and heart disease — both of which can be fatal when hypertension is left ignored, or untreated.
Weight-loss surgery or weight loss through conventional methods of diet and exercise are often the best ways to lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of serious health problems. Foods that contain high amounts of sodium and fat are the most dangerous contributors to high blood pressure.
If you’re intent on managing or lowering your blood pressure levels, steer clear of these 10 foods found in most grocery stores that could potentially worsen your blood pressure and overall health.
1. Bacon
If bacon is part of your normal breakfast routine, consider choosing “low-sodium” bacon or switch to turkey bacon. Bacon is comprised mostly of fat and contains about 270 mg of sodium and 4.5 grams of fat in every three slices. Limit yourself to bacon once every month or every few months. Bacon should be considered a special treat and only consumed once in a while, instead of on a daily or weekly basis.
2. Pickles
Although pickles are essentially cucumbers, most pickles at your local grocery store are high in sodium and other additives that contribute to high blood pressure. Just one medium-sized pickle contains approximately 570 mg of sodium, which is over one-third of your daily sodium limit.
3. Whole milk
While low-fat dairy can serve as a great source of calcium in your diet, certain dairy products such as whole milk will provide your body with more fat than it needs. Swap out whole milk for healthier alternatives of almond or coconut milk, or switch to 1 percent or skim milk if you’re insistent on drinking cow’s milk.
4. Canned soups
Chicken noodle soup may be considered comfort food for most Americans, but in truth, most canned soups contain excessive amounts of sodium and additives. Most one-cup servings of soup contain an alarming 880 mg of sodium. Instead of buying canned soups, make a large pot of soup at home, then either eat from it all week long or store it in individual containers in the freezer so you can grab and go at any time.
