Feed: Health Tips & Diet Reviews - AggScore: 7.2

Health Benefits of Onions

The onion is a potent, little tearjerker vegetable from the allium food group that is as powerful as its aroma at defending your body against illness.

Like its sister garlic, the onion may leave a bad taste in your mouth, but it triggers a good reaction in your body. Its benefits far outweigh its propensity for causing bad breath and body odor.

Inside the Onion 

Onions are a good source of dietary fiber, protein and water. They also contain vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, B12, C, E and K), calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc. Its most powerful and plenteous ingredient is quercetin.

Praise For the Onion 

The onion’s strongest defense is against heart disease, bacteria and cancer; and mincing and chopping it helps to really draw out its power.

Prevents Cardiovascular Disease – Onions provide a generous supply of the flavonoid quercetin, which is largely responsible for the onion’s ability to destroy germs and cancerous cells. Quercetin also works to lower cholesterol levels and keep arteries clear of fatty plaque deposits, which in turn lowers your risk for heart disease.

Destroys Bacteria – Onions, when cooked and eaten or applied to your skin, has the ability to kill various types of bacteria. People who like to cook their meat with a thick topping of fried or sautéed onions may literally be adding an extra layer of protection against cancer and food-borne illness, since the mix of sugar and quercetin in onions fights back salmonella and other bacteria in red meat and blocks carcinogens from forming. Onions internally and externally (when placed on the skin) destroy parasites and fungal, bacterial and yeast infections.

Kills Cancer – To further sing the praises of quercertin, I must point out that this flavonoid is also an antioxidant, which acts like a scavenger that seeks out cancer cells and free radicals that lead to cancer and gets rid of them. Onions contain other substances that prevent tumor growth. Studies have shown that people who regularly eat onions cut their chances of developing cancer in half. The vegetable is especially effective against stomach, lung and breast cancers.

Clears Congestion – The sulfur in onions is what makes your eyes water when chopping them. This reaction may also start to make your nose run and clear up sinus congestion. An ancient cold remedy advises that you put onion slices in your socks and wear them on your feet overnight. As you sleep, toxins and germs are reportedly drawn out of the body through your feet. You’ll breathe better through the night and wake up less congested. Another remedy suggests that you place sliced onions next to your skin where you are experiencing congestion, like against your chest or on your throat, for the same effect.

Other Uses – The veggie has anti-inflammatory qualities that help decrease all types of swelling, blisters, and boils. It has even been effective against diabetes and osteoporosis. To spice up your cooking and beef up your health, add more onions to the mix.

5 Life-Giving Foods for Longevity (as Told By a Centenarian)

There is no magical fountain of youth we can dip in to stay young, beautiful, healthy and strong or any miracle cure for old age. We can, however, learn from those who have somehow managed to live a long and fruitful life.

I was inspired by the story of Bernardo LaPallo, a 110-year-old man who looks like the picture of good health. His skin has few wrinkles, he’s agile, exercises everyday, has never been sick, his mind seems sharp and he’s still able to enunciate and tell his story. When asked what his secret was to long life, he relays some advice he learned from his father, who lived to be 98 years old, that I thought I would share with you.

Dad’s Advice. 

For a long, rich and healthy life, his dad recommends the following:

Trust in God. Eat properly and get your rest. Stay away from red meat and especially processed meats like hotdogs. He suggested lamb as an alternative. French fries and fast food items are a no-no, as well.

These are all common sense tips that we all know, but find so hard to obey. LaPallo is a great act to try to follow, though, if we want to live long and live well.

Power Foods. 

Five foods he recommends that have sustained him all these years, including his organic fruits and vegetables, are garlic, honey, cinnamon, chocolate and olive oil. Let’s take a brief look at these five foods and learn some of the secrets behind their life-giving power:

GARLIC – Garlic is a spice widely used for all types of health conditions. It stops the growth of bacteria, fungus and yeast infections; clears up skin blemishes; protects the heart; boosts your immune system; regulates blood sugar; fights cancer, colds, inflammation and the flu; and rids the body of toxins. Sounds like a winner to me.

HONEY – Honey is a natural sweetener that works a lot like garlic and is a diverse remedy for many conditions. Honey reduces fever; aids in digestion; regulates blood sugar; fights cancer, colds, flu, allergies and bacteria; burns fat; boosts energy and metabolism; clears up skin blemishes; heals internal and external wounds; and gets rid of hangovers and insomnia.

CINNAMON – Cinnamon is a spice that is used in cooking, but also can be used to treat HIV; protect unborn babies from oral and genital herpes; regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels; protect the skin from skin cancer and discoloration; protect the body from colon cancer and other intestinal problems; and defend against infections, viruses, heart disease and possibly Alzheimer’s disease.

CHOCOLATE – Surprisingly, chocolate comes from a plant source – the cocoa plant. So just like healthy veggies and fruits that come from the ground, chocolate (or should I say, dark chocolate) is chock full of antioxidant flavonoids that are good for you. Dark chocolate can reduce bad cholesterol; lower blood pressure; prevent cancer; boost your energy and mood; regulate major body systems that affect the heart, digestion, and brain function; improve memory and stop brain cell damage caused by stroke; and prevent tooth decay.

OLIVE OIL – Olive oil also has many health benefits. It is high in the healthy monounsaturated fats, which help to block heart disease by lowering cholesterol. Olive oil also protects against cancerous tumor growth, smoothes and moisturizes dry skin, protects the skin from harmful UV rays, relieves constipation and bowel difficulties, and softens ear wax for easy removal.

Mesh Shower Puffs – How Safe Are They?

We have all heard how unsanitary and potentially dangerous using and reusing sponges can be, because of how they harbor bacteria and spread germs from place to place, but what about mesh shower puffs?

Mesh shower puffs were all the rage when they first entered the bath and body market, and you still see them being sold everywhere, especially as accessories in bath kits. Though they are an excellent bathing tool, how safe is it to repeatedly use them and when is a good time to throw them away?

What Are Shower Puffs Made Of?

Mesh shower puffs are made of a synthetic nylon material that you can actually purchase yourself from an arts and crafts store. They are fairly inexpensive and simple to make; in fact, the internet is full of tutorials on how you can save money by making your own. The amazing thing is how well they are able to create lather with only a small amount of soap or shower gel. Mesh shower puffs differ from traditional bath sponges or loofahs, in that they are cheaper and flimsier, but actually slightly more sanitary because of the material they are made from. The mesh material is less likely to hold on to bacteria and easier to clean.

How Do You Clean Them?

The shower puffs should be cleaned after each use to get rid of any dirt, bacteria and germs picked up from the body or lingering in the bathroom. Otherwise, you will transfer the bacteria back to your body the next time you wash. To clean the puffs, simply allow them to soak for a short while in a solution of detergent and/or bleach. Washing them with an antibacterial soap or other solution will also work just as well. Then rinse thoroughly and hang up to dry. Make sure they are hanging in a clean, dry and well-ventilated area where bacteria cannot thrive.

How Long Is Too Long to Keep Using Them?

If you’ve ever used a mesh shower puff, you have probably experienced firsthand the fact that they just aren’t very durable. Within a week of using one daily, the netting starts to come apart, which can be quite frustrating. The good thing is that at least they don’t cost you a lot of money to buy in the first place.
Dermatologists recommend disposing of mesh shower puffs after no more than eight weeks – if they last that long. That’s double the time you should generally keep other bath sponges and loofahs. Again, it all comes down to the material. Regular loofahs come from natural sources and therefore are more prone to retaining bacteria – not to mention the fact that loofahs are full of pores and hidden crevices where bacteria love to hide.
If you keep mesh shower puffs beyond the suggested time, you could develop rashes, acne, or other skin irritations. So enjoy lathering up with your mesh shower puffs, but keep these things in mind for a germ-free, luxurious bath experience.

Life-Giving H2O: 6 Reasons You MUST Drink Water

Water is the fuel of the body. In fact, most of the body is made up of water. So obviously the intake of water is essential to keep things flowing properly within the body. Why else is water important?

Reportedly, a healthy person can live for up to 8 weeks without food, but only about 7 days without water. It is vital for life itself. So if you’re not a big fan of drinking water, maybe these facts will change your mind.

1. Drinking Water Keeps You Cool

Normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, and even the slightest rise in body temperature can signal fever or a serious medical condition. Babies and seniors especially are susceptible to suffering significant damage as a result of overheating and dehydration. Temperatures over 100 degrees can be life threatening and potentially damaging to the brain and nervous system. Water helps to maintain normal body temperature, rehydrate the body after exercise and sweating, and quickly fend off illness that could arise from overheating.

2. Drinking Water Washes Away Toxins and Carcinogens

The recommended amount of water for the average person is eight, 8-ounce glasses per day. People can play a valuable part in ridding themselves of the many poisons and toxins that build up in the body and, in doing so, stop a lot of the diseases that invade the body. The uric acid that builds up in the joints of gout sufferers is even neutralized and washed away by water. If you’ve ever eaten too much of the wrong kinds of food and find yourself feeling ill, water can swiftly help that yucky feeling to subside as it forces the junk matter out. Water flushes out toxins, including the cancer-causing kind. Increasing your water intake will dilute their effects and ultimately eliminate them.

3. Drinking Water Dissolves Kidney Stones

One of the main functions of the kidneys is to flush out toxins through the urine. When there is an insufficient supply of water passing through the kidneys, kidney stones may develop. Restoring that supply, among other things, is one way of breaking down kidney stones and allowing them to pass through the urinary tract. The pain of kidney stones is one you won’t soon forget, so drink more water to both prevent and dispel them.

4. Drinking Water Helps You Maintain a Healthy Weight

Water has zero calories, so you can drink as much as you want without adding one iota to your weight. It is also filling when you drink water before meals, so you are less likely to overindulge. So-called fruit juices and other sweet drinks taste good, but add a lot of empty calories to your diet.

5. Drinking Water Hydrates and Heals Your Skin

Drinking water makes the skin softer, less itchy and chapped during cold season. Also, because water is constantly washing away toxins from within; skin blemishes, acne, discolorations, etc. will begin to fade away and you’ll have a much healthier glow to your skin.

6. Drinking Water Cushions Your Joints

As an added benefit to gout and arthritis sufferers, water will make joints more flexible and fluid in motion, less painful, and shielded from further damage. Athletes and very active people, who are prone to injury, can also appreciate this fact.

Health Benefits of Parsley

Parsley is most commonly known for its breath-freshening ability and its use as a decorative garnish in the culinary world. Eating parsley has healing abilities as well.

Hopefully after reading this short article, you will start consuming that garnish on your dinner plate instead of just discarding it with the leftovers.

Inside Parsley 

Parsley contains probably more vitamin K than any other food. It is also very high in vitamin C, iron and folate (vitamin B9), and has a moderate supply of dietary fiber, vitamin B2, calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc. Other ingredients include vitamins (B1, B3, B5, and B6) and phosphorus.

What Does Parsley Remedy? 

Heart Problems – Parsley is full of flavonoids, essential plant chemicals found in most vegetables, which help to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Parsley also wards off heart disease by keeping homocysteine levels down. Parsley is an acquired taste, so eating it alone may be hard at first. It’s a good idea, instead, to add parsley to your salad mixes like you would chopped spinach or onions to give your salad a distinct flavor and reap its health benefits. Another idea still would be to cook parsley in your favorite soups and sauces to enhance its nutrient power.

Osteoporosis – The high vitamin K content in parsley helps to strengthen bones quite a bit and prevent bone fractures. You will get nearly four times the recommended daily amount of vitamin K in one cup of parsley. Like calcium, vitamin K is an essential nutrient for the elderly and those who suffer from osteoporosis.

Kidney Fluid Imbalances – Parsley has been known to help maintain fluid balance as it pertains to sodium and potassium levels. It works to expel sodium and increase potassium so that the kidneys function better.

Birth Defects – The high folic acid content in parsley helps to prevent birth defects in pregnancy. Folic acid is a great idea prior to getting pregnant and usually during the first few months of pregnancy to protect against neural tube defects. However, parsley is unsafe for some pregnant women. Consult your doctor to see if yours is a special case.

Cancer – Apigenin, a flavonoid in parsley, helps to counter the effects of hormones estrogen and progesterone in encouraging the growth of cancer. Apigenin is even beneficial to men, in that it lessens their risk of prostate cancer.

Fatigue – Parsley helps to fight fatigue due to iron deficiency, as it provides a fifth of the daily recommended amount in one cup.

Digestive Problems – Parsley has been known to help settle the stomach and improve the function of the digestive system.

Infections, Weak Immune Systems – The high vitamin C content in parsley also fights infections, strengthens the immune system, and since parsley is normally eaten raw, retains the full strength and power of vitamin C that is often lost in cooking.

Inflammation – Parsley has been known to reduce inflammation and itching, especially when applied topically to rashes, wounds and other skin irritations. This is also helpful in alleviating inflammatory conditions like gout and other forms of arthritis.

Health Benefits Of A Grapefruit

Grapefruit is, no doubt, a major source of vitamin C and the basis for a very popular diet. Many have caught on to the wonderful properties of grapefruit and why it’s particularly helpful to lose weight and stay fit. As a major defender of disease and builder of immunity, grapefruit is one of the best in the citrus family, but there’s so much more that grapefruit can do.

Inside Grapefruit 

Grapefruit contains lots of vitamin C and water content. It is also a source of dietary fiber, lycopene, six B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9), calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and manganese. Grapefruit is also cholesterol free and low in calories.

Did You Know…? 

An interesting fact that few people know is that grapefruit is a hybrid fruit derived from the pomelo and citrus orange, first bred in Barbados, and unavailable until the 18^thcentury. There are red, white and pink varieties and the name is derived from the fact that grapefruits grow on trees in clusters like grapes.

Health Benefits of Grapefruit 

Supports Weight Loss – Because grapefruit has very low sugar content (it actually tastes bitter) that releases slowly into the bloodstream and several fat-burning enzymes, grapefruit is believed to speed up one’s metabolism and quickly burn fat. This is the basis behind the popular grapefruit diet. Reportedly, the smell of grapefruit reduces hunger and the fiber content makes you feel full quicker as well. Cancer Blocker – Grapefruit contains lycopene, a carotenoid in the pink and red varieties that works to destroy free radicals in the blood that can lead to cancer. Lycopene also protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Naringenin, another antioxidant in grapefruit, restores DNA and stops the formation of cancerous cells. Studies show that eating a lot of grapefruit decreases the risk for breast cancer in women who do not use or have never used hormone therapy. Even grapefruit seeds contain antioxidants. Heart Health – Grapefruit is cholesterol free itself and also helps to lower cholesterol. Low cholesterol levels promote cardiovascular health. However, since grapefruit interacts negatively with certain prescription drugs, heart patients particularly should consult their doctor before consuming it regularly. Regulates Diabetes and Blood Sugar – Grapefruit is also known to lower blood sugar levels if eaten often, because of its low sugar and high water content. Arthritis, Gout and Inflammation Blocker – Grapefruit has been known to prevent arthritis, by clearing out blockages that form in the joints. It is also anti-inflammatory and neutralizes acid in the body. Strengthens Immune System – Vitamin C content and antioxidants found in grapefruit make the immune system stronger, which helps to fight infections and keep back illnesses, including the common cold and flu. Helps With Digestion – Grapefruit helps the digestive system function better, due to its high fiber content. Fights Aging and Promotes Skin Health – Grapefruit contains spermidine, an organic compound that the body makes naturally, but declines with age. Spermidine helps in the metabolic process, slows the aging process, and facilitates the growth of new cells for healthy skin. Other Functions – Grapefruit also helps to reduce fever, regulate liver function, eliminate fatigue, break down gallstones, treat malaria, alleviate insomnia, and alleviate urinary tract disorders, and the list goes on.

Health Benefits of Kale

If you love your greens, your greens of choice should be kale, which tops the list of healthy vegetables for several reasons.

Like other dark, leafy vegetables, kale is low in calories and high in vitamin C, so you can enjoy it with any meal and eat as much as you want. Read on to see why kale has a lot of other vegetables beat.

Inside Kale 

Kale is rich in vitamins C and K, lutein, beta carotene, and calcium. It is also a good source of dietary fiber and contains other vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, and E), iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.

Kale’s Strong Points

#1 in Antioxidants (Anti-Cancer and an Immunity Booster)

Kale holds the record, so to speak, as the vegetable with the most antioxidants. Antioxidants are responsible for blocking free radicals, which are renegade cells that could potentially become cancerous. Kale contains glucosinolates, which are strong defenders against cancer. The large amount of vitamin C in kale also helps in this process. Kale is effective against breast, colon, stomach, lung, colon and rectal cancers. Vitamin C is known to strengthen the immune system as well, so that your body can better fight off infections and disease. Kale also contains sulforaphane, which also helps to fight cancer, and indole-3-carbinol, which aids in cell repair and stops cancer cell growth.

#1 in Lutein (Vision Protection)

Kale reportedly also has more lutein than any other food. Lutein is a carotenoid that protects your eyesight. Eyesight naturally deteriorates as we age, and this can be especially difficult for those who already wear glasses and contacts. To maintain the level of vision you have, one thing you can do is to include foods with lots of beta carotene and other carotenoids in your diet, since carotenoids are antioxidants whose main function is to protect and maintain your vision.

#1 in Vitamin K and Absorbable Calcium (Bone Protection)

Kale provides probably the strongest amount of protection for your bones than any other vegetable, and kale provides the calcium you need without having to get it from dairy products. Those who may be lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy products will appreciate that fact. The calcium in kale is also easily absorbed, unlike with other vegetables. The vitamin K content in kale also helps to keep bones strong and prevent fractures, providing almost four times the recommended daily amount in one ounce of kale.

Kale is best eaten raw to retain most of its nutrients, but cooking kale does not destroy all of its nutritional value. Use the curly vegetable as a garnish, for decoration, or as a delicious and nutritious addition to your next meal.

8 Health Benefits of Garlic

As far back as 5 BC, garlic was praised by Greek physician Hippocrates as a cure-all herb. Putting aside its potent aroma and potential to cause temporary bad breath, garlic is a life-saving herb that more people should take advantage of.

Prevent infections and other ailments with one or two pills or a clove of garlic a day. Read on to learn what else makes garlic so special.

Did You Know…? 

Guards Against Infections – Garlic has incredible antibiotic qualities; it stops stubborn bacterial, fungal and yeast infections. You can use garlic as a preventative measure against all types of infections.

Healthy Skin – Also, because of its antibiotic, blood cleansing, and blood vessel relaxing abilities, garlic may help reduce acne breakouts and give the skin a healthy glow.

Promotes Heart Health – Garlic is a blood thinner and LDL (bad) cholesterol and blood pressure reducer, which helps to clear clogged arteries and enables the free flow of blood throughout the body. This helps to ward off heart disease, high blood pressure and strokes.

Strengthens Immune System – Garlic strengthens the immune system by powering up the helper T-cells. Building T-cells is very beneficial to HIV and AIDS patients, since the deterioration of T-cells is responsible for triggering a lot of the symptoms and other illnesses that result from contracting HIV and AIDS. Garlic is reportedly high in vitamin C as well, which also adds a boost to the immune system.

Fights Cold & Flu – Garlic has the ability to lessen coughs and clear up congestion and hoarseness associated with upper respiratory conditions like the common cold and the flu.

Blood Sugar Regulator – Garlic has been known to help regulate blood sugar levels, which is especially of benefit to diabetics.

Anti-Inflammatory – Garlic has been known to relieve gout and arthritis, because of its anti-inflammatory abilities. Wherever inflammation is an issue, garlic is useful.

Fights Cancer – Garlic lessens your chances of getting certain cancers, particularly stomach, kidney and colon cancers.

Eliminates Toxic Metals – Garlic has been known to remove toxic metals from the body, such as mercury and lead.

Bad Breath Remedy

Though garlic has been known to cause bad breath, apparently swallowing pills or pieces of cloves whole lessens that effect since the garlic isn’t chewed, but goes straight down through the digestive system. There are even so-called odor-free garlic pills that can be taken, so that the health benefits are still gained minus the bad breath.

A Note On Cooking With Garlic

The full power of garlic is best acquired in its raw form. Since people tend to have a hard time swallowing garlic whole or eating it raw, it is recommended that you allow it to sit for about 15 minutes after chopping or crushing and then make it one of the last ingredients you add to your cooking. That way more of the nutrients will remain and the quality won’t be lost.

6 Ways to Knock Out Gout

Having a bout with gout can be agonizing and it’s usually the foods we eat that both cause gout to flare up and exacerbate the condition. However, the right foods can get rid of gout.

Gout, at its worst, can render a person immobile, with their joints inflamed and the slightest movement or pressure on them sending a person reeling in pain. Read on to learn a few tips on how to stop gout in its tracks.

What Causes Gout? 

Gout is a form of arthritis in which the joints become inflamed as a result of a buildup of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is made naturally in the body’s metabolic process, but when there’s an overload of uric acid and/or the kidneys have problems flushing it out, gout occurs and brings with it acute inflammation and pain. Though obesity and high blood pressure are largely the root causes of the condition, purine-rich and acidic foods cause gout to flare up. This is because purines are converted to uric acid in the blood and, therefore, should be avoided at all costs. Foods rich in purines include turkey, bacon, dried beans and peas, seafood, and cauliflower. Fatty foods and inactivity also encourage gout. Eating healthier, drinking plenty of water and exercising daily will keep uric acid levels down and make you healthier in the process.

Gout Blockers 

To prevent gout flare-ups and get rid of your symptoms, try one or more of these proven gout blockers:

• 1. Celery seed is an herb that has an anti-inflammatory effect, which reduces the amount of uric acid in the blood, as well as lessens the pain associated with gout. You can sprinkle celery seed on salads and meats or use it in soups, pastas and sauces. It really brings out the flavor in your food with just a little sprinkle here and there.
• 2. Ginger is rich in curcumin, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent which alleviates gout symptoms. There are so many options available to get ginger in your daily diet – gingerbread, ginger tea, ginger candy, ginger powder, ginger snap cookies, ginger ale, etc. – so there’s no reason you have to suffer with gout.
• 3. Cherries contain anthocyanins, which quickly reduce inflammation. The recommended daily amount is 20 or more cherries per day. Black cherries are also full of antioxidants which trigger the immune response necessary to get rid of swelling and pain.
• 4. Yogurt and Other Dairy Products contain healthy protein that has a soothing effect against gout. The recommended daily amount is at least 30 grams of dairy per day to counteract the effects of the disease.
• 5. Water serves to cushion the joints and flush out uric acid, so plenty of water is your friend.
• 6. Grapefruit is also recommended to fight the symptoms of gout. If you have a heart condition and are taking heart medications, grapefruit may not be a good choice, however. You should consult your doctor to see if yours is a special case.

7 Tips to Lower Your Blood Pressure

Hypertension is often the gateway to heart disease, stroke and other health problems and should thus be counteracted as soon as possible to avoid further complications.

High blood pressure (HBP) readings usually start at a minimum of 140/90, and there are simple lifestyle changes you can make to get it down to a healthy range (approximately 120/80). Of course, lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient to lower blood pressure, especially in extreme cases, but they can be an incredible start and a permanent cure in the long term.

Natural Ways to Lower Blood Pressure

1. Exercise Regularly. Just 20-30 minutes of physical activity a day, three times a week, will go a long way in regulating blood pressure. As your body gets stronger, develops more stamina, and you drop a few pounds, your heart will also get stronger and require less effort to pump blood throughout your body. As a result, your blood pressure will go down.

2. Monitor Sodium Intake. Some HBP patients are affected by the amount of salt they ingest, while others are totally unfazed. It’s good, then, to monitor how your body responds to salt. If reducing your salt intake lowers your BP, then that’s a good strategy for you. It’s a good idea to maintain moderate levels of sodium anyway, since high sodium is also attributed to other health conditions. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends a maximum of 1.25 teaspoons of salt daily.

3. Reduce Fat Intake. Too much fat in your diet, especially the bad kinds, like saturated fat, clogs your arteries and keeps blood pressure elevated. Good fats like those found in nuts, certain oils, and fish are beneficial to your heart.

4. Increase Potassium Intake. Potassium balances sodium levels in the body and, thus, blood pressure. However, the effects of potassium supplements are too volatile and unpredictable to use for this purpose. Healthy doses of dietary potassium can be acquired by eating fruits and veggies like bananas, oranges, and potatoes.

5. Eat More Fruits and Veggies. Fruits and vegetables are full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals (including potassium) that fight disease, clear blockages, regulate the body’s systems and heal the body.

6. Try Nature’s Other Hypertension Remedies. Your diet should include as many herbs, vitamins and minerals as possible, particularly those that work to regulate HBP, including the following: vitamins C, D and E; lycopene (found largely in tomatoes); fish oil; coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10); Hawthorne extract; olive leaf extract; garlic; parsley; and buchu.

7. Quit Smoking and Drinking Alcohol. Smoking and drinking alcohol in excess are known to elevate blood pressure. Smoking constricts blood vessels and makes the heart work harder. Alcohol stresses and damages the heart too. One or two glasses of wine per day is okay.

Doctor-Assisted Ways to Lower Blood Pressure

Though natural remedies are always the best way to go to avoid side effects and long-term consequences, extreme cases or acute spikes in blood pressure usually call for physician intervention. Doctors may prescribe high blood pressure medications to lower BP or maintain safe levels. Some patients may require inpatient heart monitoring, very strict diets or even corrective heart surgery.