4 Foods That Can Help Your Loved One Lower His Blood Pressure

Elderly Care in White Plains NY

If your loved one has been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you probably already know that food is at the heart of his treatment plan. The main focus in eating plans that help high blood pressure is to remove foods from your loved one’s diet, but there are some foods that you can add that can make a big difference, too.

Blueberries

Blueberries are chock full of antioxidants and anthocyanins which work inside the body to fight all sorts of health issues, including high blood pressure. It isn’t just blueberries that have the good stuff in them, though. All sorts of berries, including strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries are just as good for your loved one. Try adding them to yogurt, to oatmeal, or just eating them for dessert instead of ice cream, candy, or cookies.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is full of fiber, which is instrumental in helping your loved one to beat high blood pressure. If your loved one hasn’t enjoyed oatmeal in the past, try some different kinds. Steel cut oats, for example, aren’t as chewy or mushy as traditional rolled oats can be. Another barrier to eating oatmeal regularly is that it just isn’t convenient. Try making a big pot of oatmeal and then dividing it up into single serving containers. Then your loved one can grab a serving, heat it up in the microwave and not worry about cleanup.

Potatoes

Many people neglect potatoes from a nutritional standpoint, but they’re high in magnesium and potassium. Baked potatoes are a great way to make a filling meal for your loved one that’s fast and easy. Fill the potato with broccoli, spinach, or other favorite vegetables. A little bit of cheese or sour cream can top off the dish, but doesn’t take over and tip the potato into unhealthy territory.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is full of something called flavonoids. These are compounds that help your loved one’s body dilate his blood vessels, which can help fight high blood pressure. A little bit of dark chocolate a few times a week can do great things for your loved one’s heart health, but it can also help to keep his sweet tooth in check so that he’s not craving unhealthy snacks and treats.

Try adding a few of these to your loved one’s diet and see if he starts to see some positive changes.

Source
http://www.aarp.org/health/medical-research/info-04-2011/6-foods-fight-high-blood-pressure.html#quest1
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/287710.php
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/heart/prevention/nutrition/food-choices/benefits-of-chocolate
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/280579.php