Foods that supply potassium
High blood pressure is all too common in America. It usually has no symptoms, and many of us don’t realize we have it. It is important to know what your blood pressure numbers are, because untreated high blood pressure can have catastrophic consequences, including stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while high blood pressure is both preventable and reversible, as many as 67 million Americans have high blood pressure. 
We know that medications, when taken appropriately, are very effective in controlling high blood pressure. The good news is that what we eat and drink can have just as big an effect on blood pressure. Reducing sodium intake is one extremely important dietary change to make. But there are also foods that you can add or increase in your diet that will contribute to your cardiovascular health. Here are three very common foods that can help you maintain healthy blood pressure.
Bananas are the most popular fruit in the nation. They are also rich in potassium, which is a powerful natural remedy for lowering blood pressure. There is a great amount of scientific evidence that shows that potassium plays a major role in maintaining healthy blood pressure. Potassium can counteract the adverse effects of sodium.
Another food that is full of potassium is avocado. It also provides other heart-healthy vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. It can be substituted for butter or mayonnaise on sandwiches, or make it into guacamole and dip away.
Plain, nonfat yogurt is a food rich in calcium. Studies show that adults who get 1000 to 1500 milligrams of calcium a day from their food reduce their risk of developing high blood pressure. Yogurt can be added to many foods, and substituted for other liquids in recipes, making it easy to increase the amount of calcium in your diet.
Of course, this is not intended as medical advice. Talk to your doctor and have your blood pressure checked.
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