When blood flow does not occur properly, the risk of heart attack and stroke increases. Therefore, it is important to control high BP in time. Along with medicines, proper eating habits also play an important role in keeping blood pressure balanced. Recently, holistic nutrition experts have said that there are some natural foods which can prove to be very effective in reducing high BP.
What to eat to control high BP?
1. Beetroot
Beetroot is considered a natural superfood for high blood pressure. Nitrate is found in abundance in it, which gets converted into nitric oxide in the body. This element helps in dilating the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and gradually reduces blood pressure.
How to consume: Beetroot can be eaten raw or its juice can be drunk. 1 to 2 cups of beetroot juice daily is considered beneficial. Apart from this, it can also be included in the diet in the form of salad, vegetable, soup or smoothie.
2. Hibiscus tea
Hibiscus tea helps in reducing blood pressure naturally. It is considered effective in balancing both systolic and diastolic BP. Hibiscus tea relaxes the blood vessels and helps in removing excess fluid accumulated in the body. It shows more effect especially in the initial stage of high BP. However, if someone is already taking BP medicine, it is important to consult a doctor before drinking it.
How to drink: Tea can be made by boiling dried hibiscus petals in water or using hibiscus tea bags. 2 to 3 cups of hibiscus tea can be drunk a day.
3. Flax seeds
Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and antioxidants. These elements help in improving heart health as well as controlling blood pressure. Flax seeds reduce inflammation in blood vessels and improve blood flow. Apart from this, the fiber present in them improves metabolism and is also helpful in keeping the sugar level of the body balanced.
How to eat: Flax seeds can be lightly roasted and eaten. About 25 to 30 grams of flax seeds a day are sufficient. They can also be eaten by mixing them in curd, oats, smoothie, salad or cereal.