There are many causes of high blood pressure, including genetics, poor lifestyle habits, and environmental factors. Long-term hypertension will not only cause damage to the cardiovascular system, but also may cause stroke, heart disease, kidney disease and other complications, which seriously threaten the life and health of patients. Therefore, it is crucial for people with high blood pressure to control their blood pressure.
Doctor's advice: Eat less "2 whites".
Table salt: Table salt is a natural enemy of people with high blood pressure. The sodium ions in salt can trap water in the blood, increasing blood volume, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Therefore, doctors recommend that patients with high blood pressure should control their salt intake to no more than 6 grams per day. When choosing food, try to avoid high-salt foods, such as pickles, pickled products, etc.
White sugar: White sugar is also a food that people with high blood pressure need to be wary of. Excessive sugar intake can lead to excess energy, which in turn can lead to metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, which can aggravate high blood pressure. Therefore, doctors recommend that patients with high blood pressure reduce the intake of white sugar in their daily diet and try to avoid high-sugar foods such as sweets and candies.
Doctor's recommendation: Eat more of these foods.
Potassium-rich foods: Potassium is an important mineral for maintaining stable blood pressure. Potassium can counteract the pressor-boosting effect of sodium ions, thereby lowering blood pressure. Potassium-rich foods include bananas, potatoes, spinach, etc. Patients with high blood pressure can increase the intake of these foods in moderation to maintain potassium and sodium balance in the body.
Foods rich in unsaturated fatty acids: Unsaturated fatty acids help to lower cholesterol levels in the blood and reduce lipid deposition in the walls of blood vessels, thereby preventing the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. Foods rich in unsaturated fatty acids include fish, nuts, olive oil, etc. People with high blood pressure can consume these foods in moderation to improve cardiovascular health.
Foods rich in dietary fiber: Dietary fiber helps lower blood cholesterol levels and prevent the occurrence of atherosclerosis. At the same time, dietary fiber can also promote intestinal peristalsis, improve digestive function, and contribute to physical health. Foods rich in dietary fiber include whole-grain bread, oats, legumes, etc. People with high blood pressure can eat more of these foods to keep their bowels open and prevent constipation.
While dietary modifications are important to control blood pressure, there are a few things that patients need to be aware of in their daily lives:
Maintain a balanced diet: While controlling salt and sugar intake, ensure the intake of other nutrients to avoid malnutrition.
Individual differences: Everyone's physical condition and nutritional needs are different, so patients should adjust their diet individually according to their actual situation.
Medication combination: Dietary adjustment is only a means to control blood pressure, and patients need to take medication on time and have regular check-ups to ensure that blood pressure is controlled within the ideal range while adjusting their diet.
Dietary modification for patients with high blood pressure is a long-term and difficult task. By eating less "2 whites" (salt and sugar) and eating more foods rich in potassium, unsaturated fatty acids and dietary fiber, we can control blood pressure to a certain extent and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.