Nearly one out of three American adults have high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control—that’s a whopping 67 million people! While it is largely a symptomless condition, the long-term effects of uncontrolled high blood pressure can be devastating and range from heart attack and stroke to trouble with memory or understanding.
This is why it’s important to get your blood pressure under control as soon as possible. The good news is you can do this with safe, natural aids without having to rely on medication.
Consider some of the following ways you can naturally lower your blood pressure:
Drink hibiscus tea
Hibiscus tea, which can be brewed using tea bags or by steeping the dried flowers in hot water, has long been used to treat high blood pressure in African and Asian countries. Recent studies back up this claim and suggest drinking three cups of the tea daily to reap benefits. Most health stores carry the tea in some form.
Try apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has been touted to have an anti-glycemic effect which can prevent starch from being digested and raising blood sugar. Dilute two tablespoons of the liquid form in eight ounces of water or look for it in capsules if you can’t stomach the acidity of the drink.
Switch to decaf
Sorry caffeine lovers, your cup of Joe might be spiking your blood pressure and tightening blood vessels. Consider switching to decaf coffee or decreasing the amount of caffeinated beverages you consume daily.
Practice yoga
Stress is one factor that can increase blood pressure. Relax and practice yoga. Recent studies found that doing yoga two to three times per week resulted in a significant drop in blood pressure of participants.
Cut out salt
For those heavy handed with the salt shaker, take note: you should be consuming no more than 1,500 milligrams of salt per day. Reducing salt intake can lead to a great reduction in blood pressure, so try to stick to whole foods and avoid processed foods that are full of sodium.
Consume more potassium
Potassium, which helps blood vessels relax, may also help reduce blood pressure. Try adding potassium-rich foods like sweet potatoes, bananas and spinach into your diet to meet the recommended 4,700 milligrams per day.
Give one of these methods a try and remember that the key with any natural remedy is to use it in conjunction with healthy diet and exercise for most effective results