15 Foods to Avoid If You Have High Blood Pressure!
- Salty foods: These foods are high in sodium, which can raise blood pressure. Examples include processed foods, canned foods, and restaurant meals.
- Snack foods: These foods are often high in sodium, saturated fat, and unhealthy fats. Examples include chips, crackers, cookies, and pastries.
- Red meat: Red meat is high in saturated fat, which can raise blood pressure. Choose lean cuts of meat or plant-based proteins instead.
- Processed meats: Processed meats are high in sodium and unhealthy fats. Examples include bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and deli meat.
- Whole-fat dairy products: Whole-fat dairy products are high in saturated fat, which can raise blood pressure. Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy products instead.
- Fried foods: Fried foods are high in unhealthy fats, which can raise blood pressure. Choose baked, grilled, or roasted foods instead.
- Sugary drinks: Sugary drinks are high in calories and can raise blood pressure. Choose water, unsweetened tea, or coffee instead.
- Alcohol: Alcohol can raise blood pressure, especially if you drink too much. Limit your alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
- Caffeine: Caffeine can raise blood pressure in some people. If you find that caffeine raises your blood pressure, you may want to limit your intake.
- Trans fats: Trans fats are unhealthy fats that can raise blood pressure. They are often found in processed foods, such as cookies, crackers, and fried foods.
- Added sugars: Added sugars are sugar that is added to foods and drinks during processing or preparation. They are often found in sugary drinks, candy, and baked goods.
- White bread: White bread is high in refined carbohydrates, which can raise blood pressure. Choose whole-grain bread instead.
- Canned soups: Canned soups are often high in sodium. Choose fresh or frozen soups instead.
- Packaged meals: Packaged meals are often high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and calories. Choose home-cooked meals instead.
If you have high blood pressure, it is important to talk to your doctor about making dietary changes. They can help you create a plan that is right for you.
Here are some additional tips for following a healthy diet for high blood pressure:
- Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Choose lean protein sources, such as fish, chicken, and beans.
- Limit your intake of saturated fat, unhealthy fats, and added sugars.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Make gradual changes to your diet.
By following these tips, you can help to lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.