Hypertension: Understanding Blood Pressure and Its Causes

Blood pressure is an important indicator of our overall health. 

Obesity, diabetes, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications such as decongestants, analgesics, steroids, and antidepressants are all risk factors for high blood pressure.

To maintain healthy blood pressure levels, it's important to eat foods that are low in salt and rich in calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Here are some examples:

Peaches: These fruits are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and are best eaten fresh.

Yogurt: This dairy product is an excellent source of calcium and other minerals that are beneficial to our health.

Broccoli: This vegetable is a rich source of antioxidants and contains 6% of our daily calcium requirement, 8% of our daily magnesium requirement, and 14% of our daily potassium requirement.

White kidney beans: Beans are a great source of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, and can be eaten in stews, soups, salads, or purees.

Bananas: One medium-sized banana provides 12% of our daily potassium requirement. When ripe, they can also be frozen and enjoyed as a healthy iced dessert.

Kale: This leafy vegetable is a superfood that contains valuable antioxidants and very few calories. It's best eaten as a salad or in boiled form.

Kiwi: In addition to being rich in vitamin C, kiwi can also help lower blood pressure. They are best eaten fresh, preferably in fruit salads.

By understanding the causes of high blood pressure and making dietary changes, we can take steps towards a healthier lifestyle and lower our risk of hypertension.