1. Artichokes
The use of artichokes has been implicated in the lowering of
cholesterol levels in the blood. Since hypercholesterolemia is one of
the risk factors for high blood pressure, this information is actually
good news. Three clinical trials conducted separately by Dr. Barbara
Wider supports this fact. In Cochrane Database of Systemic Reviews’
October 2009 issue, where the result of the study was published, it was
shown that patients who were diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia and
given Artichoke leaf extract exhibited a decrease in their blood
cholesterol levels.
Artichokes taste amazing steamed (generally steam for about 1 hour)
and then dip each piece into a mixture of olive oil, grass-fed butter,
and garlic. Delicious!
2. Bananas
A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine says that
incorporating bananas in your day-to-day meals can actually cut
stroke-related deaths by as much as 40 percent. A 1997 study at Johns
Hopkins University recommended eating at least five bananas daily to
achieve the desired effect, and that is to lower elevated blood pressure
levels. However, a study conducted by Indian researchers at the
Kasturba medical college revealed that people who eat two bananas a day,
for one whole week, can lower their blood pressure levels by 10
percent.
Bananas are rich in potassium, which is responsible for the proper
functioning of the heart. It works with sodium to maintain balance of
the body’s fluids, which is an important factor in the regulation of
blood pressure.
3. Beets
A research study conducted by scientists from Barts and The London
School Medicine revealed that simply drinking one 500 ml glass of
beetroot juice each day can produce astounding health benefits,
especially to the heart.
Beetroot juice has been found to lower high blood pressure levels.
Professors Amrita Ahluwalia and Ben Benjamin, from the William Harvey
Research Institute and Peninsula Medical Center, respectively, led the
research efforts, which revealed that the consumption of dietary nitrate
that is found in beetroot has BP-lowering effects in as fast as 1 hour
after ingestion, with the effect lasting for up to 24 hours. The result
of the study was published in the March 2008 issue of Hypertension.
You can try beetroot juice, or also try baked beets sliced on salads or as a side dish to dinner.
4. Cocoa
A study conducted by researchers from Germany’s University Hospital
of Cologne revealed that cocoa can significantly lower high blood
pressure levels. Study results were published in the Archives of
Internal Medicine. The beneficial heart effects of cocoa are attributed
to its flavonoid content, specifically procyanids.
Because cocoa is most commonly found in chocolate, people falsely
assume that eating a lot of chocolate could be good for the health. Keep
in mind that cocoa in chocolates have undergone a lot of processing,
and it has been mixed with loads of sugar, so this is not totally
healthy. The best way to take advantage of the health benefits offered
by cocoa is to choose raw cacao – it is good for the heart, the brain
and the liver. Raw cacao nibs go great in smoothies! Also use organic
cocoa powder in smoothies or homemade hot cocoa sweetened with stevia
instead of sugar.
5. Garlic
Researchers from South Australia’s University of Adelaide have
conducted studies, which provide solid proof that the consumption of
garlic can indeed help lower elevated blood pressure levels. Garlic
supplements in powder form were given and results revealed that it
produced a reduction in systolic blood pressure. Garlic has been known
all over the world as a very important herb, especially with its
heart-protecting capabilities. It helps lower blood cholesterol levels
and prevents blood from forming clots (which could lead to heart attack
and stroke).
Furthermore, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
journal has published the results of a laboratory test showing how
garlic juice can lead to a decrease in blood pressure levels. Eating the
equivalent of 2 cloves of garlic each day can significantly contribute
to the health of the heart.
I like artichokes, banana and cocoa, and maybe garlic too :) I haven't tried beets yet. I am wondering what beets taste like.
I'm gonna forward this post to my friend Emy because she has been monitoring her blood pressure lately. Maybe it could help.
Have a good one!
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