Fast food and deep-fried meals are loaded with unhealthy fats, sodium, and calories that can spike your blood pressure.
Ditching full-fat dairy products such as whole milk, cheese, and butter may be a wise move if you're looking to keep your blood pressure in check.
Beef, pork, and lamb are notorious for their high levels of saturated fat, which have been linked to elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and the development of heart disease, including hypertension.
Opt for salt-free or low-sodium snacks. Instead of having nuts, jerky, or crackers, satisfy your craving for a crispy snack by popping your plain popcorn and spicing it up with your favorite salt-free seasonings.
Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and soda all contain caffeine, a notorious blood pressure booster. Caffeine has the potential to cause a temporary increase in heart rate.
Processed snacks, baked goods, and sugary drinks are often packed with excessive sodium. Too much salt leads to water retention and raises blood volume and blood pressure.
Instant noodles are typically low in calories and fiber but high in fat, carbs, sodium, and some micronutrients.
Excessive alcohol consumption (more than three drinks at once) can elevate blood pressure. Also, alcohol's diuretic effect can leave you feeling parched and running to the loo more often than usual, leading to dehydration.
Sodas are essentially liquid candy, packed with refined sugar and providing little to no nutritional value.
Nourishing your heart with fresh vegetables and fiber-rich beans is a wise dietary choice. Opt for fresh options whenever possible; if not, go for frozen over canned varieties.