Diet for High Blood Pressure

PurposeDiseases of the heart and blood vessels are the number one cause of death in the United States. People with hypertension, or high blood pressure, are more likely to develop these diseases. Therefore, it is important to try to lower elevated blood pressure.

Hypertension cannot be cured in most cases. It can be successfully managed with lifestyle changes and/or medication. Reducing the amount of sodium in the diet can help bring blood pressure levels down.

Nutrition FactsWith proper food selection, a diet for high blood pressure can be varied and adequate in all nutrients, including vitamins and minerals.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has developed these definitions that appear on food packages to assist consumers watching their sodium intake:

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  "low sodium" means the food has 140 milligrams or less of sodium per serving
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  "very low sodium" means the food has 35 milligrams or less of sodium per serving
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  "salt-free" means the food has 5 milligrams or less of sodium per serving
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  "light in sodium" means the food has at least 50% less sodium than the original version of the food
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  "reduced sodium" means the food has at least 25% less sodium than the original version of the product