![]() Pomegranate juice acts as a natural ACE inhibitor, similar to the class of medications prescribed to treat hypertension and heart failure. How it works: ACE is an enzyme that raises blood pressure by creating a protein called angiotensin II, which causes your blood vessels to constrict. Aim for three cups a day - and for the best results, prepare fresh tea daily. Sipping suggestion: In one widely publicized study, three eight-ounce servings of hibiscus tea lowered prehypertensive subjects’ systolic blood pressure significantly. One study showed that hibiscus tea was as effective at lowering blood pressure as captopril, a prescription ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. How it works: Like pomegranate juice, hibiscus contains bioactive phytochemicals that act as a natural ACE inhibitor. An English study found beet juice to be as effective as nitrate tablets in treating hypertension. Sipping suggestion: Research suggests that one to two cups of beet juice daily can lower blood pressure immediately (within an hour of consumption) and significantly. Finally, beets support healthy blood vessel function and battle homocysteine, which can damage blood vessels. Nitrites relax smooth muscle tissue and increase blood flow. What’s more, beets contain nitrate, which is converted into nitrites once ingested. How it works: Beets are a good source of potassium - and a good source of folate, both of which are important in regulating blood pressure. ![]() Sipping suggestion: As part of a daily regimen, three servings of low-fat milk and other low-fat dairy products has been shown to help reduce systolic blood pressure. Low-fat milk is richer in calcium than full-fat milk, and the modest amount of fat actually helps you absorb the calcium more easily. It’s important to choose the right type of milk for the best results, though. How it works: Calcium deficiencies have long been linked to high blood pressure, and the inverse is also true: High calcium intake helps lower high blood pressure. But you can still kick it up a notch by watching what you quaff: These six drinks can contribute to a drop in blood pressure, especially in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise. If you’re already doing those things, you’re on the right track. What can you control? Everything else, which involves making smart lifestyle choices, such as being physically active, reducing your sodium intake, and eating healthfully. There are two big risk factors for high blood pressure that are beyond your control: age and family genetics.
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