This Simple Food Change Can Lower Blood Pressure Within 2 Hours, And It is Not Cutting Salt

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Eating protein-powered beans, especially the darker varieties like red kidney and black beans, can help in preserving vascular health

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is among the worst conditions, which can be dangerous too if not kept in check. Known as a silent killer, apart from regular visits to the hospital, the best way to keep it in control is to make a few lifestyle changes—in your diet and daily routine. And now, a new study has revealed that a simple dietary switch could be the answer for those battling high blood pressure.

Tim Spector, the brains behind the Zoe app and a professor of genetic epidemiology at King’s College London, suggests that you can immensely benefit from upping the intake of potassium, which aids in expelling excess sodium from your body. Potassium also helps boost fibre consumption. “Eating 5 gms more fibre a day can reduce blood pressure by twice as much as reducing salt,” he advises.

Salt not only spikes blood pressure but also causes water retention in your body. And so, eating protein-powered beans – especially the darker varieties like red kidney and black beans – can help in preserving vascular health. Researchers at the University of Manitoba in Canada found that consuming red kidney beans leads to lower blood pressure within two hours, as compared to eating rice.

Dark-coloured beans not only pack a punch for blood pressure health but also make blood circulation smooth and proper.

How do beans instantly lower blood pressure levels?

According to scientists, beans – powerhouses of potassium and magnesium – help your body get rid of excess sodium through urine and relax blood vessel walls, both of which contribute to lower blood pressure. Magnesium relaxes the blood vessels and is a key factor in managing high blood pressure.

Also, the fibre present in beans slows down the absorption of sugar into the blood and reduces blood sugar levels. This can indirectly help manage blood pressure by reducing the risk of heart disease, a major factor in hypertension. According to studies, beans also help with blood sugar management due to their lower glycemic index as compared to many other high-carbohydrate foods. This means they cause a smaller rise in blood sugar after a meal.

How to eat beans regularly?

While you can eat canned beans regularly, the best way to eat them is to soak them in water overnight and boil them. Add them to salads, soups, and even dishes for amazing results.