High blood pressure isn’t good for anyone. Blood consistently pounding against artery walls at a very high force will lead to damage. There’s no doubt about it. But incorporating one particular tasty bean into your diet could help lower your blood pressure.
Rich in potassium, magnesium and fibre, mung beans are a healthy addition to any meal.
Studies reveal these nutrients found in mung beans are linked to a significantly lower risk of high blood pressure.
An analysis of eight studies showed higher intakes of legumes, such as beans, lowered blood pressure in both adults with and without high blood pressure.
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Slightly sweet in flavour, mung beans can be eaten in salads, soups and stir-drys – even curries.
They’re available in fresh form, as sprouts and dried beans – so there’s a variety of ways to enjoy the delicious small, green beans.
Interestingly, test-tube and animal studies revealed proteins found in mung beans can suppress enzymes that naturally raise blood pressure.
But the effect of those proteins in mung beans are yet to be tested on blood pressure levels in humans.
As part of the legume family, an analysis of eight studies concluded that higher intakes of legumes, such as beans, lowered blood pressure in both adults with and without high blood pressure.
Blood pressure can be measured at the GP’s clinic or even in the comfort of your own home with a blood pressure monitor.
Healthy readings, as noted by the NHS, is considered to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg.
Any reading over 140/90mmHg is a major health risk and indicates high blood pressure.
Lowering blood pressure readings is important to your health.
Otherwise, high blood pressure puts unnecessary stress on your body.
Over time, various health complications are likely to occur if you have high blood pressure.
For instance, coronary heart disease, stroke, dementia and kidney failure are just a few of the known side effects of persistent high blood pressure.
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To reduce blood pressure readings, the NHS recommends cutting your salt intake to less than 6g per day – which is equivalent to a teaspoonful.
The NHS state that most nutrition labels reveal different levels of salt in the same food items, depending on the brand.
The Change4Life Food Scanner – which can be downloaded on smart mobile phones, such as an iPhone or Android – can show you exactly how much salt is contained in the food you buy.
The health body lists high-salt foods to enjoy less often, and these include: anchovies, gravy granules, soy sauce, prawns, olives and ham.
Aside from dietary adjustments to lower blood pressure, the NHS suggest cutting back on alcohol too.
Nowadays, there’s lots of options for low-alcohol beers available to purchase, as well as low-alcohol wines.
Blood Pressure UK suggest adding mixers or water to your alcoholic beverages to make them last longer, which may reduce the number of drinks you’ll order at the bar – and save you money.
National health guidance advises men and women to drink no more than 14 units a week.
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