World Hypertension Day: Want to be stress-free? Include these 5 food items in your diet

Being tense once or twice (especially if the situation calls for it) is okay. However, if it becomes chronic, that can lead to multiple health problems. Although often dismissed, being habitually tensed can make way for several health complications, such as diabetes and cardiovascular issues.

World Hypertension Day is observed on May 17, to spread awareness about hypertension and high blood pressure and share tips to keep heart problems (a corollary of hypertension) at bay.

While hypertension can be managed by stress-relieving exercises and meditation, did you know that a lot of it can also be controlled by watching what you eat. Adhering to foods that are proven to lower hypertension is a more sustainable way to control hypertension than taking medications, most of which are not a solution to the underlying problems and come with their own side effects. Make sure to stock your fridge with one or more of these foods to combat hypertension:


Go Bananas

Bananas are a rich source of potassium. Potassium is a useful nutrient for controlling hypertension as it reduces sodium levels and reduces tension in the walls of blood vessels.

Eat More Beets To Beat Stress

A beet a day can keep hypertension at bay. A 2015 study found that a cup of beet juice a day is enough to lower your blood pressure significantly. You can consume beet juice, or cook it into curry.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

Although your dentist probably won’t be happy if you suddenly develop an addiction to chocolate, dark chocolate has been proven to be beneficial in managing hypertension. Cacao, the main ingredient in dark chocolate, contains flavonoids, which are said to lower BP.

Have more Watermelon!

A staple favourite during Indian summers, this red, juicy fruit can help you beat the heat and also calm down your nerves! Watermelons are a rich source of an amino acid known as citrulline. Citrulline helps the body produce more nitrogen oxide, a gas that helps blood vessels relax and encourage the flow of blood, thereby lowering hypotension.

Ditch Rice, Say Hello To Oats

Oats contain beta-glucan, a type of fibre that is said to boost heart health and lower hypertension. A 2020 study conducted on rodents found that rats who were fed more oats displayed reduced levels of malondialdehyde, (an oxidative stress marker). You can boil oats in milk, or have them with a dash of yogurt or fruits. If you're in the mood for something more tangy, just cook them with your favourite vegetables and spices!