There are many ways to naturally lower your blood pressure, but not a lot of people know that certain foods have blood pressure-lowering properties. It is important to choose foods that are low in sodium and high in at least two or three of these: a) calcium b) magnesium c) potassium. Lowering your blood pressure can decrease your risk of heart disease, stroke, or even a heart a talk by 50%. Try adding the following foods to your diet to help naturally lower your blood pressure.
#1: Kiwis
While kiwis are more prevalent certain times throughout the year, many grocery stores carry them year round. When you eat one kiwi, you get 7% of the magnesium, 9% of the potassium, and 2% of the calcium you need every day. One kiwi also contains more vitamin C than an orange!
#2: Kale
This trendy superfood has been on the popular health charts for good reason. This low calorie leafy green is rich in vitamin K, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants. Eat it raw to get the most out of the vegetable. It goes great in smoothies, in salads, or in freshly made juices.
#3: Bananas
Bananas are notorious for having potassium and magnesium. These are great nutrients for lowering cortisol levels, i.e. stress hormones. Additionally, bananas are great for naturally getting rid of bloating, gas, or water weight. If your bananas are browning, you can freeze them and save them for smoothies instead of throwing them away.
#4: Broccoli
One cup of this cruciferous veggie provides up to 14% of your daily potassium requirement. It also has magnesium, calcium, and famously has phytonutrients that can help naturally fight cancer. We have many broccoli recipes on our website because you can use it so many different ways.
#5: Avocados
Much like bananas, avocados are rich in magnesium and potassium. There are many ways to eat avocados aside from making guacamole. In fact, most people don’t know that the pits have some pretty amazing benefits. You can actually blend them into a smoothie!
#6: White Beans
We saved the best for last. One cup of white beans can provide 13% of the calcium, 24% of the potassium, and 30% of the magnesium you need in your daily diet. This comfort legume is great in stews, as a side, and a meatless source of protein. Try to not buy these in the can so that preservatives don’t get in the way of their benefits.
