High blood pressure if left unchecked results in increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and leads to target organ damage such as LVH, retinal changes and vascular changes. The main objective in the management of hypertension is prevention of target organ damage and reduction of cardiovascular risk. The management requires a multi-prolonged approach. Although it is widely accepted that drug therapy is essential for optimal Blood pressure control, it should not be forgotten that non-pharmocological measures are also important in the management of hypertension.
What are the worst foods for high blood pressure? This is very common question my patients often ask me. On one hand, it is exceedingly complicated and complex and has been the continued focus of research by doctors and physicians. On the other hand, the vast majority of dietary recommendations for hypertension have resemblance and similarities to general healthy diet recommendations.
Following worst foods for high blood pressure and should be avoided:
1. Alcohol
The association between alcohol and high blood pressure is well documented both in population and clinical studies. An Alcohol intake of about 80 g/day (Equivalent to four pints of beer) has been shown to raise Blood pressure particularly in patients of hypertension. Blood pressure tends to fall when alcohol is stopped or reduced and remains low in patients who continue to abstain.
Patients with hypertension should avoid Alcohol. As alcohol can raise blood pressure directly, is also an important factor in damaging walls of blood vessels, which can elevate the blood pressure further and make it more difficult to treat, while at the same time increasing the risk of complications. Limit consumption of Alcohol to no more than two drinks per day in most men and one drink per day in women and lightweight men.
2. Salt
A restriction in dietary sodium intake can reduce the incidence of hypertension. Studies have shown that there is a clear relationship between dietary salt intake and Blood pressure and people who consume less salt have a smaller rise in Blood pressure with advancing age. Salt restriction to about 100mmol/day (2.4 gm sodium or 6 gm sodium chloride) has been shown to produce a significant reduction in systolic Blood pressure to about 8-14 mm Hg in several randomized placebo-controlled studies. In some people, eating too much salt can make blood pressure much worse and In other cases the same salt consumption may have no effect.
More salt intake will result in more retention of fluid by kidneys and this will lead to more pre-load on heart, that will result in more blood pressure. You should avoid salt in your diet if you really want to control your blood pressure. If you are already a patient of hypertension, then reduce salt in your diet as it just accentuates the problem.
You can lower your blood pressure to a great extent if you reduce salt consumption in your diet. You should not have more than 6 grams (100mmol/day) of salt per day. Pizza, canned foods, frozen diners, broths, canned soups and salad dressings have high sodium so try to avoid these foods. If you are non-vegetarian then make sure you are including white meat like chicken and fish rather than red meat in your diet.
3. Foods with Saturated Fats
Food that is rich in fats should be avoided. Foods High in Fat are as follows:
Saturated fats are not good for heart and blood vessels. Low density lipoprotein LDL is main factor which causes thickening of blood vessels so causing extra strain on blood vessels in patients of high blood pressure. The balanced high blood pressure diet should include mild amounts of saturated and trans-fats (red meat, fast food), and moderate amounts of other fats (olive oil and canola oil).
4. Caffeine Intake
There are many foods that are known to cause high blood pressure, caffeine intake is one of them. Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and some soft drinks. It works by blocking the effects of adenosine, a chemical that normally slows down nerve cell activity. When caffeine blocks adenosine’s effects, it speeds up nerve cell activity and this can cause a rise in blood pressure.
Caffeinated drinks can be enjoyed in moderation but if you’re looking to keep your blood pressure under control it’s best to avoid drinking too much coffee or tea. Chocolate also contains caffeine so if you’re watching your blood pressure it’s best to limit your intake of this sweet treat as well. If you do enjoy caffeinated beverages try sticking to decaf versions where possible or choosing herbal teas which don’t contain any caffeine at all
5. Junk Foods
There are many foods that are known to cause high blood pressure, but one of the most common is junk food. Junk food is defined as any food that is high in calories and low in nutritional value. This type of food includes items such as candy bars, potato chips, and sugary drinks.
Junk foods are not only bad for your blood pressure, but they can also be harmful to your overall health. They are often loaded with unhealthy fats and sodium which can increase your risk for heart disease and other chronic health conditions.
If you want to keep your blood pressure under control, it’s important to avoid eating junk foods whenever possible. Instead, focus on eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lean protein sources, and whole grains.
Final Thoughts
There are many worst foods for high blood pressure and can have serious health consequences. To reduce your risk of developing hypertension, try to limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and salty snacks. Instead, focus on eating fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about how to make these dietary changes. They may also recommend taking medication to control your blood pressure.
