What Foods Should Elderly People with High Blood Pressure Avoid Eating?

Update Date: 2024-05-16 Source: Network

Hypertension in the elderly is a common occurrence. Besides taking medications regularly to control blood pressure, dietary habits also play a crucial role. For instance, hypertensive patients should avoid high-fat foods as excessive fat in the bloodstream can affect blood circulation and lead to elevated blood pressure. Additionally, maintaining a stable mood is essential.

Studies have found that protein intake is closely related to blood pressure. Therefore, to control blood pressure, it is recommended to consume foods rich in protein, such as soy products, fish, and lean meat, which can be beneficial. Foods containing calcium and potassium can also be beneficial. Calcium helps reduce the impact of high salt levels on blood pressure, while potassium-rich foods can dilate blood vessels. Common calcium-rich foods include milk, shrimp shells, seaweed, and soybeans, while potassium-rich foods include beans.

Fruits and vegetables are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, such as vitamin C, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which are effective in controlling blood pressure. On the other hand, reducing salt intake is crucial as high salt intake is a major contributor to hypertension. Hypertensive patients should limit their daily salt intake to less than three grams and be aware of the salt content in snacks and other foods, such as pickled foods and preserved meats, which are high in salt and should be consumed sparingly. Instead, they should increase their intake of fruits and vegetables.