Hypertension, known as “High Blood”, in the days of our ancestors, is rampant in the United States, especially in communities of color. When the force it takes for the blood to push through the arteries is too high, you are diagnosed with hypertension. Diet plays a major part because of the highly processed diet consumed by many in addition to lack of exercise, and health issues, like diabetes, and obesity.

Untreated high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart disease, obesity, and kidney failure. The treatment for the most part is a combination of medications that relax or widen your blood vessels and, a change in diet and lifestyle. Are you aware certain drinks help to lower blood pressure? Allow me to introduce you to them.

Beets are vegetables low in calories and contain vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds, which may help lower your blood pressure. In 2016 a random pilot study found raw and cooked beet juice improved blood pressure but the raw beet juice was more effective. Beets are also rich in dietary nitrates that lower blood pressure.

Try this beet juice recipe:

INGREDIENTS

• I large beet, trimmed and chopped
• 1 apple, cored and chopped
• 1/2 lemon

DIRECTIONS

1. Process all ingredients through a juicer or blender. For the blender combine the beet, apple, and lemon with 1/2 cup water, and blend for about 60 seconds. Strain and drink. Drink one to two cups daily.

Tomato juice contains antioxidants that have health benefits, one of which was found to lower systolic (top number) blood pressure. Drinking a cup a day is recommended.

Skim milk contains calcium, potassium, and magnesium, all known to help lower blood pressure. Drinking 1 to 2 glasses a day can help lower blood pressure over some time.

Drinking Hibiscus tea affects blood pressure because of the antioxidant anthocyanin it contains. Drinking 2 cups a day for two weeks was shown to lower blood pressure.

Pomegranate juice contains anthocyanins as well and may help regulate blood pressure. Drinking 8 ounces twice a day may lower your blood pressure.

Some people with high blood pressure have found grapefruit juice in the morning improved their blood pressure. Grapefruit contains potassium, lycopene, fiber, and plant nutrients that help lower blood pressure. Be aware certain blood pressure medications interact with grapefruit juice. Consult your medical provider or pharmacist before drinking grapefruit juice.

Green tea has been used for ages for medicinal reasons. Green tea lowers systolic (top number) and diastolic ( bottom number) blood pressure when drinking it daily.

Black tea like green tea has been shown to reduce blood pressure. Its active compounds relax muscles in the blood vessels, reduce hormones that raise blood pressure, and increase nitric oxide which opens blood vessels.

Cardamom tea derived from fruit is usually used as a spice. However, many cultures use it as a tea and it has been proven to lower blood pressure and improve blood clots.

To be clear do not stop taking any prescribed medication, however adding some of the drinks, improving your diet, and doing a simple exercise such as walking, can lower your blood pressure. Health is real wealth, take care of yourself!

Until next time,

Peace, Love, and Blessings❤️