Exercise can help lower blood pressure. It can have immediate, more short-term effects—a phenomenon called post-exercise hypotension—but exercise has long-term benefits for blood pressure, too. Different types of exercise may have unique benefits for your heart, blood pressure, and overall health with hypertension (high blood pressure). Among the many benefits of exercise is its research-backed…
Beetroot juice is a bright red beverage made from the root of the beet plant, Beta vulgaris. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds. As a result, beet juice may lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and offer other health benefits. Beets are high in nitrate, which the body can convert into nitric oxide…
Several studies suggest that adding turmeric, or its active compound curcumin, to your diet might help lower your blood pressure. However, most of the research involves taking curcumin supplements (a practice that may not be advisable for everyone) rather than simply adding it to your diet. Here is what you need to know about turmeric’s…
Added sugars, especially from processed foods and sweetened drinks, may increase the risk of high blood pressure. Excess sugar in your diet can also contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance, which can put extra strain on your heart and blood vessels and increase the risk. Added sugars like table sugar or high-fructose corn syrup…
If you or someone you know seems to get bitten by mosquitoes more than others, there may be a scientific explanation. Some research suggests this happens because mosquitoes are more drawn to certain people based on blood type, body odor, and genetics. The idea that mosquitoes prefer a certain blood type is controversial, and the results of…
It’s estimated that over 115 million Americans have high blood pressure. Now, in an effort to address this figure (and the host of dangerous conditions that often accompany high blood pressure), the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology have released updated guidelines on how Americans should be managing their heart health. The…
Melty, gooey, savory, and rich, cheese is understandably one of the world’s favorite foods. Cuisines from across the globe feature this beloved dairy product, with origins stretching—literally—back at least 7,000 years. Nowadays, of course, we know that too much of some nutrients in cheese—namely sodium and saturated fat—aren’t so helpful for certain health concerns. High…
Strength training is an important part of any successful workout regimen. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends it to build muscle and improve bone density. However, some people worry that resistance training could negatively impact their blood pressure, especially if it’s already a little high. Keep reading to learn when strength training…
Research has found that caffeine, the bitter stimulating substance found in coffee and some types of tea, may temporarily increase blood pressure, especially in people who don’t frequently consume caffeine. However, other research shows that moderate, regular consumption of coffee does not negatively affect blood pressure. Several factors can influence how coffee affects blood pressure,…
Living near high-traffic roads can expose people to tiny particles of air pollution believed to raise blood pressure, but a new study suggests a simple fix: using a high-efficiency particulate air—or HEPA—purifier. HEPA filters are often considered the most effective air purifiers and are designed to remove up to 99.97% of small (as minuscule as…
