World Hypertension Day: Avoid These Foods If You Have High Blood Pressure

 When your blood pressure increases beyond the normal levels, the condition is known as hypertension or high blood pressure. The incidence of high blood pressure in India is fairly high. Poor lifestyle habits and unhealthy eating has made many people suffer from issues related to high blood pressure. Foods which are rich in protein, low-fat dairy, fruits, and vegetables are suggested for people suffering from hypertension. Salt and packaged foods or foods with a lot of preservatives are to be avoided in case you are a hypertension patient.

Clinical nutritionist Monisha Ashokan says, "People suffering from high blood pressure should abstain from caffeine as it can hold on to salt in the body. Some green leafy vegetables also should be avoided. Having lots of water is very important for people suffering high blood pressure."

This World Hypertension Day, learn all about the foods which should be avoided by high blood pressure patients: 

1. Salt

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Those living with high blood pressure or any other kinds of heart diseases should try and abstain from salt and sodium as much as possible. Most of the sodium that we consume comes from products like canned soup and tomato products, frozen pizza and packaged vegetable juice to name few.

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Also read: Diabetes And Hypertension Rates High In India: Study

2. Processed meat

Processed meat can have lots of sodium content. These meats are processed, cured and seasoned with salt. Furthermore, adding condiments, pickles, cheese or bread with these meats for a sandwich or a burger can give an instant boost to your sodium intake.

3. Frozen pizza

Frozen pizzas can often be loaded with sodium content. The combination of meat, tomato sauce, cheese and crust increases the sodium content in frozen pizza. And as far as frozen pizzas are concerned, manufacturers add more salt to maintain the flavor.

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Also read: Climb Stairs: Here's How It Will Reduce High Blood Pressure

4. Pickles

Any food which requires to be preserved will have more salt. The reason behind this is that salt prevents food decay and makes the food stay edible for longer. But the sodium content increases for as long as the food is preserved. Hence, pickles are a big no-no for people suffering from hypertension.

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5. Sugar

Excessive sugar can contribute to weight gain and obesity. Also, consuming sugar in excessive amounts will have an adverse impact on patients suffering from high blood pressure.

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Also read: These Are By Far The Best Practices To Follow To Reduce Blood Pressure

6. Alcohol

Consuming alcohol in excessive amounts can contribute to increasing blood pressure. Also, alcohol can reduce the effect of medicines you're taking for keeping your blood pressure under control. Alcohol is loaded with calories and can lead to obesity and weight gain - which can further lead to high blood pressure.

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What are the alternatives?

Blood pressure patients should include lots of vegetables and fruits in their diet. They will make up for essential nutrients like potassium, fibre and antioxidants that you need. Dealing with hypertension isn't about starving yourself. It is all about eating right and eating healthy. 
 

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Happy World Hypertension Day!

(Monisha Ashokan is a clinical nutritionist)

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.