Can You Really Eat Your Way to Healthier Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a common health issue among adults. With almost half of adults experiencing hypertension in the United States alone, the condition is quite prevalent. 

Whether you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure or have discovered it yourself through self-testing, learning ways to control your blood pressure might ultimately save your life. 

High blood pressure usually doesn’t cause symptoms, but simple testing with your primary care provider can help you track your blood pressure. This measurement indicates the force of blood against the walls of your blood vessels and can tell you if there’s a buildup of fat and cholesterol along the walls. (If there is, you have atherosclerosis.) 

Physicians Clifton Etienne, MD, Michael Cavanagh, MD, and Flora Brewington, MD, specialize in primary care and are experts in hypertension management. With their assistance, you can modify your diet and habits to maintain a healthy blood pressure. At Westmed Family Healthcare in Westminster, Colorado, your long-term health is in excellent hands. 

Understanding high blood pressure and diet

Your blood pressure can be high for a number of reasons. Multiple medications and substances can lead to high blood pressure, which can in turn be detrimental to your health. 

When you eat lots of foods that raise your blood pressure or constrict your vessels — including salty foods, alcohol, and large meals — you also raise your risk for dangerous health issues. High blood pressure can contribute to:

• Heart attack
• Stroke 
• Aneurysm
• Kidney dysfunction
• Vision problems
• Dementia

Our team at Westmed Family Healthcare is here to assist you with nutritional planning and assessment. If we detect high blood pressure, we evaluate your current eating habits and assist you with finding healthier meal options and adjusting your habits. 

How to lower your blood pressure with dietary changes

A healthier blood pressure isn’t always achievable through dietary changes alone. However, dietary modifications can make a major difference and might help you avoid unnecessary prescription medications. 

Valuable nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and fiber are essential for anyone who wants to maintain a healthy blood pressure. Magnesium and potassium are both micronutrients, similar to vitamins. On the other hand, fiber is a carbohydrate in many foods that your body doesn’t digest. Instead, this substance passes through your body to aid in digestion while also lowering blood sugar and cholesterol. 

You can find fiber along with other essential blood pressure-lowering nutrients in foods like:

• Legumes
• Fruits
• Veggies
• Nuts
• Whole grains

To keep your blood pressure in check, you should also minimize dietary options like salty foods, caffeine, and alcohol. 

What if my blood pressure is low?

Low blood pressure can also lead to health issues. You might experience fatigue, fainting, or nausea if your blood pressure gets too low. When this happens, think about what you last ate and when you last ate. You might need to drink more water, exercise, or include more salt in your diet. Eating itself may raise your blood pressure to more acceptable levels. 

Check in about your blood pressure today

Are you concerned about hypertension or low blood pressure? Schedule an appointment by calling our Westmed Family Healthcare office or booking online today for nutritional guidance and other health recommendations.