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As you grow older, health problems multiply and add. From deteriorating knees health to a not-so-strong heart, health problems come and stay. When it comes to heart health, you cannot take it lightly. Heart problems like high blood pressure or hypertension are very common, and if you do not take steps to control it, it can put your life at risk. What’s the solution? Well, you need to just add something to your diet. According to an expert, there are certain herbs for blood pressure which can help to keep it in check.
Healthshots spoke to Dietician Roopshree Jaiswal, Consultant Dietitian/Nutritionist. Motherhood Hospital, Mechanic Nagar, Indore, to find out the herbs which can manage high blood pressure.
She said, “High blood pressure affects a vast population above the age of 40 worldwide. The signs and symptoms of the disease are often undiagnosed, which increases the risks of further complications. Fortunately, dietary and lifestyle changes can help manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart diseases.”
Here are 5 herbs that you should add to your diet to control your blood pressure level:
1. Basil
Basil is extremely effective in treating medical conditions such as blood pressure, cold, flu, arthritis, and others. Eugenol present in the basil leaves helps to control high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels. Drinking basil tea or chewing raw basil is recommended for the benefits.
2. Amla
Do you use it for your hair? Well, amla is a superfood that also helps to reduce high blood pressure by widening the blood vessels. People suffering from heart diseases are recommended to have a raw amla on an empty stomach in the morning. Amla juice can also be an alternative to raw amla.
3. Garlic
Garlic is rich in sulfur compounds such as allicin which is good for your heart. It helps increase the blood flow and relaxes the blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure. Garlic surely deserves a place in your daily diet!
4. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an integral part of Indian dishes, and it is also used in Ayurveda to treat heart conditions and high blood pressure. It helps dilate and relax the blood vessel, leading to lower blood pressure.
5. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is another popular Ayurvedic herb with numerous benefits such as boosting immunity, relief from anxiety and stress, and keeping blood pressure levels in control. People with heart conditions can drink a glass of warm water mixed with Ashwagandha powder to experience the benefits.
Keep these tips handy to bring your high blood pressure down:
* Maintain optimum weight
* Avoid alcohol and smoking
* Keep yourself hydrated always
* Consume a diet rich in potassium
* Manage your stress levels
* Stay active and follow a healthy workout routine
* Reduce sodium intake
* Practice yoga regularly
* Monitor blood pressure regularly
* Consume a well-balanced diet that includes veggies, fruits, and other healthy foods
According to Dr Sharanya S Shastry, Dietician at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bengaluru, following a well-balanced and nutritious diet is essential to lower your high blood pressure.
You can consume these foods for high blood pressure:
* Foxtail millet is advisable. You can consume it in the form of khichdi, idli, or kheer.
* Fish and lean chicken are abundant in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins and minerals which can help lower high blood pressure.
* Green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, cabbage, and watercress are perfect vegetables for high blood pressure.
* Fruits like oranges, mango, and jamun contain vitamins and minerals that help in decreasing blood pressure.
* Last but not the least, flaxseeds are a powerhouse of nutrients that can decrease high blood pressure.
