Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls. High blood pressure (HBP) means the pressure in your arteries is higher than it should be. Another name for high blood pressure is hypertension. HBP is more prominent amongst black people than any other. Studies show that about 90 percent of all cases of high blood pressure are caused by lifestyle factors like diet, lack of exercise, stress and smoking. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg. As a reminder, remember to discuss any changes to your diet with your doctor.
The following herbs are thought to be helpful additions to a healthy diet and may provide some benefit when trying to lower your blood pressure. The following information and additional details regarding these herbs can be found on www.healthline.com.
Cinnamon is an aromatic spice that comes from the bark of the tree species from the Cinnamomum genus. Cinnamon can be sprinkled on food or drink, you can drink it as a tea or it can be taken as a supplement. It is a warm herb and is thought that it can help dilate and relax the blood vessels causing the blood pressure to lower.
Garlic is an allium. It is known to have a positive impact on circulation and heart health. Garlic can be used to season food or taken as a supplement.
Ginger root has been used for centuries not only to lower blood pressure but for many reasons. It acts as a natural calcium channel blocker and natural ace inhibitor. Ginger can be used to spice up foods and taken as a supplement.
Thyme is a flavorful herb packed that contains rosmarinic acid. This acid has one benefit of reducing inflammation and blood sugar levels as well as increased blood flow. Fresh and dried thyme can be used in many dishes.
Parsley is a popular herb that contains a variety of compounds such as vitamin C and dietary carotenoids that may help reduce blood pressure. Parsley can be added to spice up foods or as a supplement.
While adding the above herbs may provide some benefit, removing a few things from your diet can be helpful when trying to lower your blood pressure. Things like salt, all packaged and processed foods, saturated, hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fats, sugar, caffeine and alcohol. Be sure and try some of these tips to get a better reading the next time you visit your doctor.
Teresa
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