All of us have heard of cutting the salt and eating more veggies, but managing blood pressure can go beyond these common tips. Blood pressure is described as the “silent killer.” In that case, it does not need to be managed by simple, everyday advice. Here are some surprisingly effective and lesser-known tips to keep your blood pressure in check naturally.
Our in-house expert, Dt. Aparna Pandey, MSC-Nutrition and Dietetics, shares an exhaustive list of things that can help control High Blood Pressure Naturally.
1. Dark Chocolate Can Be Your Friend
Yeah, you read that right—dark chocolate, specifically high-quality dark chocolate with 70% or more cocoa, contains flavonoids, which can help dilate blood vessels and facilitate blood flow. These compounds have been shown to reduce blood pressure in moderation; therefore, enjoy a little square as a guilt-free treat.
2. Laugh Out Loud—It’s Medicine
It sounds kind of weird, but the truth is laughter does lower blood pressure. The increased circulatory flow and reduced stress hormones will naturally relax your blood vessels. Try watching more funny videos, listening to podcasts, or spending time with friends that make you laugh. You could call this a workout for your heart minus the gym.
3. Power Up with Potassium-Rich Coconut Water
Most of us think bananas are the way to potassium, but coconut water is one of those lesser-known powerhouses that hydrates and provides high amounts of potassium to help balance out sodium levels as well as reduce blood pressure. Try drinking coconut water a few times a week—it’s refreshing and beneficial.
4. Essential Oils Aren’t Just for Relaxation—They Can Lower Blood Pressure
Oils such as lavender, ylang-ylang, and frankincense have the soothing effect of lowering blood pressure. You can use these in a diffuser or apply a dilution on your pulse points to relax. Some studies indicate that inhaling these aromas may also impact blood pressure favorably, perhaps during those inevitable stressful times.
5. Hibiscus Tea Can Be an Antioxidant Boost
Hibiscus tea is one of the more unusual herbal treatments that contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which also influence in lowering blood pressure. Studies have shown that drinking two to three cups of hibiscus tea daily will have the most effect. Its tangy flavor, besides being invigorating, also does quite well chilled on a hot day.
6. Try the Japanese Practice of “Forest Bathing”
Known as shinrin-yoku in Japan, forest bathing literally takes quiet time in nature, allowing our senses to drink in all the views, sounds, and scents. Research has demonstrated that it can reduce stress hormones and blood pressure. You do not need to be in a forest to benefit—any peaceful nature spot, such as a park, will work wonders for your heart health.
7. Add a Little Turmeric to Your Meals
Not just for curry: curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is known to be an anti-inflammatory and improve vascular function. A pinch of black pepper boosts curcumin absorption, so a turmeric latte or a sprinkle in your soup or salad dressing may nudge your blood pressure in the right direction.
8. Try Acupressure to Relieve Tension
This is actually an old Chinese technique, depressing points on the body to unblock stress and make the current flow well. There is a point between your thumb and your index finger; simply pushing that for several seconds may help calm you down. There is another one below the kneecap, which supposedly regulates high blood pressure.
9. Chew on Celery Seeds (Not Just the Stalks)
Celery contains diuretic properties, but celery seeds are even more potent when it comes to blood pressure. The tiny seeds contain phytochemicals that even expand the blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and even improving blood circulation. Munch on a few seeds or toss them into soups and stews for a subtle but mighty advantage.
10. Tap the Power of Magnesium-Rich Foods
Although potassium gets a lot of attention, magnesium also does its share in regulating blood pressure. Magnesium causes the vessels to relax. Pumpkin seeds, almonds, and tons of leafy greens have plenty of this mineral. Try a handful of pumpkin seeds to get your dose as a healthy snack.
A combination of these measures can indeed help control high blood pressure naturally. For more customized dietary tips – CLICK HERE.
