Cardiologist Professor Reveals Diet for Lowering Blood Pressure: What to Eat with Hypertension?

Nutrition for Hypertension: Main Rules and Restrictions

Arterial hypertension is one of the most common diseases in Russia, requiring a special approach to nutrition. According to a professor and practicing cardiologist, to effectively combat high blood pressure, it is important not only to take the medications prescribed by a doctor but also to strictly monitor the diet.

Which Foods Lower Blood Pressure?

Among the foods particularly beneficial for hypertensive patients are:

• Leafy green vegetables - rich in potassium, which helps remove excess sodium from the body and lowers blood pressure.
• Berries - contain antioxidants that strengthen the vascular wall.
• Pomegranates and beets - contribute to improved blood circulation.
• Garlic - lowers cholesterol levels and gently dilates blood vessels.
• Fatty fish - a source of omega-3 fatty acids that positively affect the cardiovascular system.
• Lean meat - chicken, turkey, rabbit, lean beef, prepared without excess fat.
• Olive oil - plant fats in moderate amounts are healthier than animal fats.

The professor also recommends including unprocessed oatmeal, vegetables of various colors, and beets in the diet - these foods support vascular health and help lower blood pressure[9].

What to Avoid with Hypertension?

The most important recommendation is to limit salt intake as much as possible: no more than 3-5 g per day (about ¾ teaspoon), including salt in ready-made products[3]. The following should be completely excluded from the diet:

• Salty, pickled, and canned products
• Smoked meats, sausages, fast food
• Fatty meat and lard
• Strong coffee, alcohol, sugary carbonated drinks

Sweets and baked goods are allowed in very limited quantities. Fractional meals - 4-5 times a day - help avoid overeating and contribute to stabilizing blood pressure[8]. Drinking regime: 1.5-2 liters of water per day, but it is better to clarify the norm with the attending physician, especially in the presence of kidney diseases[5].

Sample Daily Menu for Hypertensive Patients

If you want to add flavor to the dish - use lemon juice, herbs, garlic, olive oil instead of salt and fat[1].

Additional Recommendations

The professor emphasizes that to achieve maximum effect, it is important to combine proper nutrition with regular physical activity, weight control, and the abandonment of bad habits. In the presence of comorbidities (such as diabetes or kidney diseases), the diet should be adjusted individually after consulting a doctor[5].