Have high blood pressure increases the risk of suffering cardiovascular problems such as a heart attack, cardiovascular accident or aneurysm.

Diet plays an important role, both in increasing and controlling tension. We all know that people with hypertension must control (or even avoid) salt consumptionbut that goes beyond the table salt that we add to our dishes. There are some foods that already have it incorporated and can go unnoticed.

On the other hand, it is also well known that ultra-processed foods and products of animal origin such as red meatthe sausages or the full fat dairy products These are some of the foods to avoid in case of hypertension.

However, In the vegetarian or vegan diet there may also be foods that increase blood pressure and that should be taken into account.

Foods that raise blood pressure

If you have high blood pressure, in addition to avoiding or reducing to a minimum the consumption of salt, ultra-processed foods and red meat or sausages, keep in mind that these foods also raise blood pressure:

Olives and pickles

Pickles are vegetables preserved in brine, a solution of water and salt (and sometimes other seasonings).

Although olives, pickles or chivesamong others, are a healthier alternative to other fried snacks, it is therefore advisable to moderate their consumption if you have hypertension, as they usually contain a lot of salt. You can also choose low-sodium varieties or rinse them well before taking them (always in low quantities).

Licorice

He licorice It is a root that is used as a sweetener, and for medicinal purposes to calm coughs or relieve stomach pain.

The substance that gives it its sweetening power, glycyrrhizinic acid or glycyrrhizinis considered fifty times sweeter than sugar itself and is also responsible for raising blood pressure because can cause the body to retain sodium and lose potassium, which can increase blood volume and blood pressure.

It’s okay to take it from time to time, but habitual or excessive consumption is not recommended for people with hypertension.

Salted nuts

Nuts are, as you surely know, a type of food very beneficial for health. Rich in healthy fats, proteins, minerals and fiber, they are an excellent option for an aperitif. However, depending on how they are prepared, their properties can be ruined.

Read the labeling carefully and make sure they do not contain added salt and take them in moderation, as they are usually high in calories and in excess can contribute to the development of Obesity, a risk factor for hypertension.

Vegan burgers and sausages

Just like processed meats, vegan burgers and sausages too may contain added salt which could contribute to increased blood pressure.

Also other prepared products, such as vegan cheeses, soups or jarred creamsmay contain excess salt.

Bread

Bread is a food that many people eat daily, often without realizing that it may contain more salt than is convenient for them. Since 2022 the maximum salt content has been regulated What bread can contain: 1.31 grams per 100 grams of bread, something that may be excessive if you have hypertension.

If you make the bread yourself at home you will be able to control the quantities much better and, if you prefer to buy it, ask for the bread without salt.

Coffee

Coffee, the most consumed stimulant drink in the West, used to have a reputation for being harmful to health, but in recent years there have been many studies that have analyzed its positive effects: It is believed that it could protect the brain against Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s, improve the progression of type 2 diabetes or reduce the risk of asthma, among other benefits that, however, are still being proven.

However, Its caffeine content can cause notable increases in blood pressureso it should be avoided if your pressure figures are high. This is also true for drinks that contain caffeine (soft drinks, energy drinks…).

Condiments

Replace salt with other seasonings to season meals is a very good idea. There are many options that combine various spices or herbs, but once again, you have to read the labeling because just because they are herbs doesn’t mean they don’t contain added salt.

But also keep in mind that some sauces, such as soy sauce or ketchupusually contain a high sodium and added sugar content.

Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption is harmful for many reasons: carries a greater risk of liver, digestive and pancreas problems, of developing different types of cancer, and also of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Alcohol acts as a vasodilator (that is, it relaxes the blood vessels and widens them) and can lead to an increase in blood flow and, consequently, pressure. In addition, it can stimulate the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and thus contribute to further raising tension.