LONDON, October 27: According to the NHS, around 30% of adults suffer from high blood pressure, and 15% of them live with untreated hypertension. This condition can lead to serious health problems such as heart attacks and kidney disease; however, it can often be managed through certain lifestyle changes.

Senior dietitian Victoria Taylor has outlined the dos and don’ts of diet for managing high blood pressure, identifying four foods that should be avoided. She also offers a recommendation that could actively help lower blood pressure.

The British Heart Foundation expert stressed that salty foods should be the first to be eliminated. She advised individuals to limit their salt intake to no more than 6 grams per day, or about one teaspoon. While that might seem manageable, she noted, “Most of the salt we consume is already in our foods,” noting that it can be found in products like olives, chips, sauces and pickles, as well as in processed meats, as well as in foods. with basics like bread and breakfast cereals.

To combat this, Victoria recommends opting for low-salt alternatives and preparing low-salt meals at home instead of relying on takeaways. She also warned against sugary and fatty foods, which can contribute to weight gain and indirectly increase blood pressure.

Alcohol consumption can also be a concern for people with hypertension, as excessive alcohol consumption can lead to weight gain over time. Victoria noted that while it is not necessary to eliminate alcohol completely, moderation is key, suggesting consumption should be significantly lower than the government guidelines of 14 units per week.

Finally, the dietitian advises reducing caffeine consumption, as it can temporarily raise blood pressure. Although this effect is usually short-lived, she cautioned that some people may be more sensitive to caffeine and that excessive consumption could lead to a lasting increase in blood pressure. She pointed out that caffeine is not only found in coffee and tea but also in soft drinks and chocolate.

On a positive note, Victoria recommends increasing consumption of low-fat dairy products, which can help manage blood pressure. She explained: “Dairy products contain a complex combination of nutrients, including calcium, which has been linked to reducing blood pressure. » Low-fat dairy products provide calcium and protein without excess fat.

These dietary recommendations are based on research conducted by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute in the United States, known as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) dietary method.