High blood pressure affects many, causing blood to rush through vessels, straining the heart. Certain foods can help or harm.

1. Salt tops the list. “Salt is the prime criminal when it comes to high blood pressure,” says experts. Excess sodium throws off the body’s balance, hindering kidney function. Reduced urine production leads to higher blood volume and pressure. The recommended daily sodium intake to avoid hypertension is 1500 milligrams. Cutting back on salt can make a big difference for those with high blood pressure. Other foods to avoid include:

2. Processed Meats Processed meats are high in sodium and harmful fats, which can elevate blood pressure levels.
3. Canned Soup Canned soups often contain high levels of sodium, contributing to hypertension.
4. Sugary Drinks Sugary drinks not only add empty calories but can also lead to weight gain, which is a risk factor for high blood pressure.
5. Alcohol Excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and damage the heart over time.
6. Pickles Pickles are loaded with sodium, making them unsuitable for those with high blood pressure.
7. Caffeine While moderate caffeine consumption may be okay, excessive intake can spike blood pressure.
8. Bacon Bacon is high in saturated fat and sodium, both of which can contribute to high blood pressure.
9. White Bread White bread and other refined grains can lead to weight gain and high blood pressure.
10. Pizza Pizza is often high in sodium, saturated fats, and calories, all of which can increase blood pressure.
11. Cheese Cheese is another high-sodium food that should be limited in a hypertension-friendly diet.
12. Red Meat Red meat is high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase blood pressure.
13. Chinese Food Chinese food can be high in sodium and unhealthy fats, contributing to hypertension.
14. Fast Food Fast food is typically high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and calories, all of which can raise blood pressure.
15. Frozen Meals Frozen meals are convenient but often contain high levels of sodium, making them a poor choice for those with high blood pressure.

Making smart dietary choices can help manage high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.