Are there vegetables that lower blood pressure?

There are several vegetables that naturally contain compounds that are said to help lower blood pressure. These vegetables are rich in potassium, nitrates, magnesium, and antioxidants, all of which contribute to better heart health and blood pressure regulation.

Spinach is rich in potassium, magnesium and nitrates. Potassium helps the body excrete sodium, which helps lower blood pressure. Nitrates improve blood circulation by dilating blood vessels. Beetroot is particularly rich in nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in the body. This helps relax and dilate blood vessels, which can lead to a lowering of blood pressure.

Broccoli contains potassium, magnesium and calcium, all minerals that help regulate blood pressure. It also contains antioxidants that can reduce inflammation. Not only broccoli but also other cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower and kale are said to have the same effect.

Celery contains phytochemicals such as phthalides, which help relax the muscles around blood vessels, which can help lower blood pressure. Sweet potatoes are high in potassium and magnesium, both of which are important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.

Vegetables rich in potassium, nitrates, magnesium and antioxidants are said to help lower blood pressure. However, scientific evidence for this is very limited and the drop in blood pressure is often too small to have an effect on complications of high blood pressure such as stroke, heart attack or death.

Source: https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-024-03577-8

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-09-11 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024