High blood pressure (HBP) or hypertension is chronic medical condition in which the arterial blood pressure is elevated. HBP has been known to be a risk factor for stroke, heart failure and aneurysm. It is also the leading cause of chronic kidney failure. An individual with even the slightest increase in blood pressure leads to a shortened life expectancy.

Despite doctors always writing prescription for medications for high blood pressure or hypertension, there are also some home remedies that can help in lowering HBP or even controlling it. These home remedies can only be boiled down to one thing – eating the right kind of food.

Eating raw garlic is probably one of the most effective ways of lowering high blood pressure. Consuming at least 3 cloves a day can lower HBP as much as 10 points. Green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, seaweed and spinach are known to alleviate high blood pressure. Our body contains only 1 oz of Magnesium but despite this low level it is vital in many bodily functions as well as lowering HBP. Magnesium-rich foods include wheat bran, Brazil nuts, almonds, soya beans, beans and even plain dark chocolate. Aside from magnesium, potassium is also a very helpful in mineral for individuals with high blood pressure. Pureed tomatoes, figs, raisins, potato (baked or roasted) and poultry are just some of the food that contains high levels of potassium. Apricots, avocadoes, melons and bananas are some more examples of food with high potassium content. Calcium-rich foods are another example of foods that can lower high blood pressure and these include dairy products, cereals, orange juice and tofu.

Cold water fish like tuna, salmon (trout), herring and hoki (blue grenadier – from New Zealand waters) are known to be rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids can help in lowering high blood pressure as well as lowering bad cholesterol and increasing the levels of good cholesterol. It’s been know to be good for the heart.

Just like any diseases, staying away from alcohol and smoking, basically a clean living, is additional step for leaner, healthy you. It’s never too late to invest in health. It pays even more than any financial scheme.