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Foods that we eat are supposed to nourish the human body and every type of nutrient found in them is supposed to energize different parts of the body so they can function normally. Unfortunately, meals that are not properly planned would eventually destroy the balance of nutrients inside our body. That is when we acquire different kinds of diseases. Who would have thought that a large percentage of the number of sickness known to man can be acquired from the food that we eat. What we eat can have a significant impact to our health.

The most common disease or disorder that we can get from the food that we eat is hypertension or high blood pressure. Symptoms and signs are almost invisible for this type of disorder that is why millions of dollars were spent to conduct studies and come up with solutions to fight this disease. Hypertension or high blood pressure increases the risk of cardiovascular disorders and the effects may vary from simple headaches, neck pains, dizziness to fatal heart and kidney failure and paralysis. Studies also show that one out of three adult is showing signs of hypertension. Something that is not surprising for those whose lifestyle and eating habits are focused on highly processed foods and artificial flavors.

Proper diet can be a good first step to counter this problem. If there are foods that elevate blood pressure, then there are also heart friendly foods that reduce blood pressure. Normally, if the unhealthy foods elevate the production of bad cholesterol in the body, heart friendly foods contain nutrients that regulate the flow of blood and produce good cholesterol to fight off the bad ones.

Let us consider some foods with drastic blood pressure lowering properties. These foods not only reduce the risk of high blood pressure or hypertension and heart diseases but they also reduce the risk for other diseases such as diabetes.

1. Garlic which contains nutrients proven to reduce bad cholesterol level and reduce risk of blood clot for healthier blood vessels.
2. Oily fish such as tuna, sardines and salmon that contain omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids which strengthen blood vessels and reduce risk of heart diseases.
3. Oat meal and oat bran high in soluble fibers to regulate ratio of good cholesterol or HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) to bad cholesterol or LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein).
4. Nuts that reduces LDL due to its polyunsaturated fats
5. Spinach, legumes and tomatoes which are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals.
6. Citrus fruits and green vegetables that provide soluble and insoluble fiber.
7. Green tea that contains polyphenols are also powerful source of anti oxidants
8. Tofu as a substitute for meat to satisfy daily protein requirements.
9. Bananas and avocadoes rich in potassium

These food and more can be a good substitute for immediate medications to avoid any side effects from prescription medications. If we prioritize these food groups in planning our meals, we will be saving ourselves and families from life threatening diseases such as hypertension and high blood pressure.