What you eat affects your blood pressure in several ways. Eating foods which are high in saturated fats can cause the blood vessels to narrow resulting in high blood pressure, known as atherosclerosis. Eating saturated fats can contribute to obesity, which increases your risk of high blood pressure.
The most important type of fat to cut back on is saturated fat, as this fat increases the levels of cholesterol in your body
Blood pressure UK
Blood pressure UK said: “It is important to have some fat in your diet because it is a source of the essential fatty acids that your body needs and can’t make itself.
“The most important type of fat to cut back on is saturated fat, as this fat increases the levels of cholesterol in your body.
“Eventually arteries become clogged up and this increases your risk of a heart attack or stroke, and, when combined with your high blood pressure, dramatically increases your risk of future health problems.”
Foods with saturated fats:
- Pastries and pies
- Fatty meat such as lamp chops
- Processed meat such as sausages and burgers
- Butter, lard, ghee and margarine
- Full fat dairy products
- Milk and white chocolate and puddings
In a 2017 study by the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health looked at the science linking saturated fatty acid (SAFA) consumption with the risk of coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke.
Participants had their data observed when there was a consumption of SAFA and what happened to the functions in the body and food technology.
Epidemiological methods and outcomes are related to the association between SAFA consumption and disease and mortality.
The study concluded that the cardinal risk factor for stroke was elevated and high blood pressure is strongly and progressively associated with the risk of coronary heart disease.
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH diet) offers tips on eating including:
- Opt for fresh, frozen or canned vegetables with no added salt
- Choose fresh fish, poultry and meat
- Avoid processed meats wherever possible
- Don’t eat too many cured foods such as bacon
- Avoid pickled foods and salty condiments
- Try avoid ready meals and frozen convenience foods
Eating a healthy diet will ensure symptoms of high blood pressure are reduced.
If cutting out saturated fats from your diet completely is too difficult then try limiting them as much as possible.
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