High blood pressure or hypertension is a condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is abnormally high. It is one of the most common heart ailments afflicting millions around the world. Lack of preventive steps and measures may even lead to a stroke or attack. What you eat also determines your blood pressure levels in a big way. If your BP is on the higher side, you should refrain from eating excessively salty, oily and high-calorie foods as they tend to obstruct blood flow. Eating seasonal fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds may help keep your BP in check. According to experts, avocados may be a good pick for hypertension patients. Avocado, despite its high fat content, has become a nutritional showstopper of sorts in the world of fitness and nutrition. Avocados are known to be heart-friendly as they are filled with omega-3 fatty acids. The seed of the fruit is also helpful in fighting bad cholesterol. It happens to be a good source of antioxidants, which help prevent free radical activity that hampers your immunity and skin health. Being a rich source of fibre, avocados are also helpful in aiding digestion, easing constipation and promoting weight loss.
(Also Read: Can Avocados Promote Weight Loss? We Find Out)
Avocados For Hypertension
Speaking of avocados role in managing hypertension, according to the book 'Healing Foods' by DK Publishing House, avocados are a "good source of potassium and low in sodium. As a result, they can reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke. They are also very rich in antioxidants and mono-unsaturated fats, which offer protection from heart disease and stroke."
(Also Read: Nutrition In Avocado: Health Benefits Of This 'Fatty' Fruit)
People who have high blood pressure are often told to monitor their sodium intake. This is because excess sodium hinders the water balance as it exerts extra pressure on blood vessels due to which your blood flow is not as smooth as it is supposed to be. To negate the ill-effects of sodium, one must eat foods rich in potassium. Potassium makes you urinate, which helps expel extra sodium.
(Also Read:Heard Of Avocado Tea? It Can Do Wonders For Skin, Blood Pressure And Weight Loss, See Recipe)
Avocado is a very versatile fruit. Since the flavour of this pulpy fruit is so mellow, it can mingle with other fruits and veggies and give you a wholesome meal. You can make avocado tea, toss them in salads, use them to make tangy dips, blend them in smoothies or desserts. You can even sneak them in curries and parathas (make sure they are low on oil though).
Here are some fun recipes with avocados you can try at home:
Mango, Avocado And Shrimp Salad
Avocado Hummus
Avocado Coconut Curry
Guacamole
So what are you waiting for? Try these yummy recipes and tell us how you liked it.
About Sushmita SenguptaSharing a strong penchant for food, Sushmita loves all things good, cheesy and greasy. Her other favourite pastime activities other than discussing food includes, reading, watching movies and binge-watching TV shows.