High blood pressure, also known as hypertension is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular problem, which account for one in every three deaths in the United States.
High blood pressure treatment is usually done through medication and regular follow-ups with the doctor, which can span years. It is important to know though that high blood pressure and cardiovascular problems could be avoided if one maintains a healthy lifestyle and eating habits.
For instance, recent studies, such as that published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Vol. 63), have revealed that a Mediterranean style diet rich in fruits, vegetables and olive oil, could reduce the risk of hypertension. This research is the first to provide evidence that directly relates fruits and vegetables and the Mediterranean diet, as a whole, to hypertension.
List of Low Sodium Foods
First, fruits and vegetables have low sodium content. As you know, high sodium content could be one of the main causes of high blood pressure. They are also rich in potassium, which is a mineral important for maintaining proper heart function.
Fruits and vegetables are also rich in the minerals calcium and magnesium, which are both extremely important.
Healthy eating habits, combined with a healthy lifestyle free of smoking, stress and high amounts of alcohol, could all keep a healthy blood pressure.
