High blood pressure is a very common condition that affects about a third of all adults in the UK. If you have high blood pressure – which is also known as hypertension – you should consider making a few changes to your daily diet to avoid dangerous blood pressure spikes.
Hypertension is a very serious condition that increases the risk of some deadly complications.
High blood pressure puts extra stress on blood vessels and vital organs.
It raises the risk of having a heart attack or a stroke, which is why it’s crucial to monitor your blood pressure if you have hypertension.
Making a few diet swaps is one of the best ways to lower your blood pressure.
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“Potassium is an essential mineral that your body needs to function properly, and helps to lower your blood pressure,” it said.
“Eat a range of foods that are high in potassium, especially fruits and vegetables, to help keep your blood pressure under control.
“Fruit and vegetables are a great source of potassium. Plus they’re full of vitamins, minerals and fibre which keep your body in good condition, helping to prevent bowel problems and some cancers as well as heart disease and stroke.
“Fruits that are particularly high in potassium include tomato juice, orange juice, bananas, apricots, [and] currants.”
You could also increase your potassium intake by eating other foods you might have lying around the home.
Tuna, eggs, macadamia nuts, almonds and yoghurt and all great sources of the nutrient.
It’s also vital to avoid eating too much sodium, warned the charity.
Sodium, including salt, quickly raises your blood pressure, and should be avoided in large quantities.
High blood pressure is often known as ‘the silent killer’, because it rarely has any noticeable symptoms.
But, if you have extremely high blood pressure, you might develop a pounding in your chest, find blood in your urine, or have difficulty breathing.
You should speak to a doctor if you’re worried about the warning signs of hypertension, or if you think you may be at risk.
Everyone over 40 years old should check their blood pressure at least once every five years.