Fruits And Vegetables Against Bad Cholesterol And High Blood Pressure

People who have high blood pressure and excess amounts of bad cholesterol are more prone to cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and heart disease. Because of this, health experts recommend that individuals who are diagnosed with these conditions should increase their consumption of vegetables and fruits.

The Role of Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and veggies can help lower blood pressure and reduce the level of bad fats or cholesterol because of many possible reasons. Based on a scientific study behind the creation of DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), a nutritious diet mainly consisting of veggies and fruits with less salt and fats actually lowered the participants' systolic and diastolic pressure. Due to these monumental findings, people with hypertension (high blood pressure) are advised to undergo DASH. Vegetables and fruits are packed with fiber, potassium, magnesium and calcium – nutrients that can significantly decrease blood pressure.

A nutritious diet consisting of vegetables and fruits can actually help lessen the level of bad fats or cholesterol (LDL). These bad fats are a major contributor to obesity or excess weight. Excess poundage is then a major factor behind hypertension since too much fat can clog arteries, triggering the body to increase blood pressure. If excess fat is lessened or eliminated, the possibility of a person developing hypertension is also lessened.

Although the exact mechanism is still unknown, scientists strongly believe that fruits and veggies can lessen cholesterol in one way or another. One possible explanation is that fiber may prevent the body from absorbing harmful cholesterol found in many processed foods. Some experts also claim that healthy eating habits may discourage individuals to consume lots of dairy goods and meat – foods that are highly rich in fats and sodium or salt.

Fruits and vegetables, as elements of an ideal diet for those who have high blood pressure, can therefore help individuals reach and maintain a normal weight. But of course, it is easier said than done. Doctors and health experts have always advised patients to stay away from salty foods like potato chips, popcorn and processed meats in order to decrease the symptoms of hypertension. However, persistent habits are hard to break. What experts recommend is to begin a nutritious diet gradually. Instead of munching on a bag of cheese or sour cream-flavored chips, individuals dealing with hypertension and obesity can munch on pieces of fruits or vegetable slices. In this way, a person's body is given the chance to adjust to a healthier diet. For those who want a little zest in their dishes, herbs are s healthier options over flavored salts.