Top Foods You Should Avoid When You Have High Blood Pressure

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Almost one in three adults are living with high blood pressure, in the US. That is why the topic of dietary recommendations for high blood pressure is becoming popular these days.

But What Causes High Blood Pressure?

Not consuming enough fruits and vegetables can result in a high sodium intake and low potassium intake. This can contribute in the development of high blood pressure. With high blood pressure, you are recommended to have a diet low that is low in sodium and fat and to avoid these foods:

Top Foods You Should Avoid When You Have High Blood Pressure
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1. Pickles

Pickles are low in fat and calories, but are are high in vitamin K, which helps your blood clot after an injury. But pickles are loaded with sodium. Just one medium pickle provides more than 570mg of sodium, which is more than 1/3 of your daily recommended needs. If you have high blood pressure, limit your pickle intake.

2. Sugar

Excessive sugar intake has been linked to increased cases of obesity and weight gain. But, high sugar intake is also linked to high blood pressure.

Sugar, most especially sugar-sweetened drinks, have contributed to increased obesity. High blood pressure is much more common in people who are obese or overweight. The American Heart Association recommends for women to limit added sugar intake to 6 teaspoons or or 24 grams daily. For men, to restrict themselves to 9 teaspoons or just 36 grams daily.

3. Ramen Noodles

Ramen noodles are popular, because they are inexpensive and convenient. However, it is not a healthy choice due to their lack of nutrients and unhealthy components.

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A package of ramen provides 14 grams of fat, 6 grams of saturated fat and 1,731 grams of sodium. That is more than 70% of the recommended daily needs. The flavor packet contains most of the sodium, so if you want to reduce sodium intake, do not add the flavor packet.

4. Deli Meat

Lunch meats and processed deli are sodium bombs. These meats are seasoned, cured and preserved with salt. A two-ounce serving of some lunch meat contain 600 milligrams of sodium or more.

If you have a heavier hand with the cold cuts, you will get even more sodium. Added to that are the cheese, bread, condiments, and pickles and your sandwich can quickly become a sodium trap.

5. Coffee

If you have pre-hypertension or hypertension, now may be the time to quit your coffee habit. Your morning cup of coffee can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure.

If you are a regular coffee drinker, this may contribute to your hypertension. Any caffeinated drinks may cause an increase in your blood pressure and this includes caffeinated tea or soda.

Related Articles:
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2. Tips for Managing High Blood Pressure
3. Reduce Your Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure With This Drink

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