#HealthBytes: 5 food items that help low blood pressure patients
It's quite common to assume that high blood pressure is the only blood pressure-related problem there is. However, low blood pressure is also dangerous. The ideal BP count is considered to be 120/80mm Hg. Anything less than that counts as low BP. Low BP is characterized by dizziness, weakness and nausea, but can be managed with a controlled diet. Here, we list 5 food items which help low blood pressure patients.
Avoid dehydration to stay away from low BP
Dehydration is one of the biggest causes of low blood pressure. So, it becomes essential to drink plenty (not less than 8 full glasses) of water every day to avoid dehydration. Apart from water, consumption of other drinks should be also be promoted to stay hydrated and refreshed, especially if it's summer time. These include coconut water, aam panna, sharbat etc.
Caffeine-containing drinks can boost your blood pressure
For reasons largely unknown, caffeinated drinks i.e. coffee and tea help provide considerable and swift boosts to BP. So, if you feel weak and dizzy, go for a cup of coffee or tea, as it will quickly provide a boost to your BP. However, it's important to note that caffeinated drinks only provide short-term relief, and cannot be a cure in the long run.
Don't forget Vitamin B-12 rich foods to combat low BP
A Vitamin B-12 deficiency may lead to anemia, which is known to decrease blood pressure levels. So, if you already suffer from low BP, or wish to avoid the risk, then including food items rich in Vitamin B-12 in your diet can go a long way to help. Foods rich in Vitamin B-12 include eggs, cheese, yogurt, milk, and lean meats.
Balanced salt intake ensures controlled blood pressure
Salt and blood pressure share a simple relationship - excess salt intake results in high blood pressure and vice versa. The World Health Organization (WHO) says that in addition to the natural salts derived from fruits and vegetables, there should be atleast one teaspoon of salt in your daily diet. Adequate salt intake is a must in summers, and for people who actively workout.
Chew on some Tulsi leaves to restore normal blood pressure
Tulsi leaves contain umpteen amounts of potassium, magnesium and vitamin C, all of which aid in regulating your blood pressure. Secondly, tulsi leaves also have an antioxidant called Eugenol, which is known to control blood pressure and decrease bad cholesterol. So, in case low BP symptoms are noticed and they persist, chewing on some tulsi leaves helps with the problem.
