High blood pressure or hypertension has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), high blood pressure is responsible for 12.8% of total deaths around the world each year. Defined by increased pressure in the arteries, high blood pressure makes the heart pump harder, increasing the risk for heart attack, stroke, arterial aneurysm, or heart failure.
When people get serious about lowering blood pressure, there are many foods that you need to ditch. These high-sodium foods include canned soups, deli meats, frozen meals, refined sugars, trans fats, sodas, and more. Many people have turned to plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains to help decrease LDL cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Vegetables that contain potassium and fiber have been especially helpful in managing blood pressure levels. In addition to making the plant-based switch, someone with high blood pressure is encouraged to consume a combination of the following juices on a daily basis.
Celery Juice
Celery juice has become one of the most popular juices in the health world as of late, and for good reason. Containing 3-n-butyphtalide compounds, which contribute to the taste and aroma of celery, celery helps to relax the muscles in the walls of blood vessels. When blood vessels dilate and allow blood to flow more smoothly, it is possible for blood pressure levels to decline.
Spinach Juice
Spinach is an excellent source of potassium, which has been proven to relax tension in blood vessels and arteries. In doing so, blood can flow more fluidly, bringing blood pressure levels down in the process. Spinach also contains lutein, which helps to prevent the thickening of arterial walls, ultimately reducing the risk of increased blood pressure levels and heart attack.
Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate juice should be made fresh at home, or fresh at a juice bar. Most bottled pomegranate juices often contain processed ingredients and sugar, both of which are detrimental to high blood pressure patients. Fresh pomegranate juice is loaded with potassium and other heart-healthy nutrients, and it contains three times more antioxidants than green tea. A 2017 study found that regular consumption of pomegranate juice significantly reduced blood pressure levels.
Carrot Juice
People tend to think that carrots are solely beneficial for eye health, when they are beneficial for many conditions, including high blood pressure. The potassium content makes them attractive to those looking to decrease blood pressure levels. According to the book Healing Food, carrots may help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and stroke.
In addition to consuming the above juices, people with high blood pressure should also drink hibiscus tea. The antioxidants and anthocyanins may inhibit blood vessels from narrowing, the act of which causes blood pressure to increase. Should you decide to sweeten hibiscus tea, choose stevia, raw agave syrup, or grade A maple syrup. Drink about three cups a day to reap the full benefits.
