Foods that help increase blood pressure
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Foods That Increase Blood Pressure: High-Sodium Foods, Licorice, and Processed Foods
Several foods are known to increase blood pressure, mainly due to their high sodium content or specific bioactive compounds. High-sodium foods, such as salty snacks, processed meats, and canned soups, can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure by increasing plasma sodium levels, which affects blood vessel function and stiffness. This effect is well-documented in both clinical and experimental studies 16. Additionally, foods containing licorice, such as licorice candies, teas, and certain cookies, can significantly raise blood pressure. This is due to glycyrrhetic acid in licorice, which disrupts hormone regulation in the kidneys, leading to sodium retention and hypertension 14.
Energy Drinks, Alcohol, and Sugar-Sweetened Foods
Energy drinks are another group of foods that can increase blood pressure, primarily because of their caffeine content. Studies have shown that consuming energy drinks can cause a noticeable rise in arterial blood pressure . Alcoholic beverages, even in low doses, are also linked to increased blood pressure and a higher risk of cardiovascular complications. Binge drinking, in particular, has a strong hypertensive effect .
Foods high in added sugars, especially sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), sweets, and mixed processed foods, can also contribute to higher blood pressure when consumed in excess. Controlled trials have found that excess calories from these sources are associated with increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure . Similarly, diets high in ultraprocessed foods are linked to higher blood pressure in both children and adults .
Dietary Patterns and Blood Pressure
Unhealthy dietary patterns, characterized by frequent consumption of salty, sugary, and processed foods, are strongly associated with increased blood pressure. Studies have shown a clear relationship between poor food consumption patterns and higher rates of hypertension . In contrast, diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products, such as the DASH diet, are effective in lowering blood pressure 78.
Foods and Compounds That Lower Blood Pressure
While the focus is on foods that increase blood pressure, it is important to note that certain foods and nutrients can help lower it. Diets high in fiber, potassium, and bioactive compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols—found in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and some seeds—are associated with lower blood pressure 589. Regular consumption of these foods supports cardiovascular health and can counteract the effects of high-sodium and processed foods.
Conclusion
Foods that help increase blood pressure include those high in sodium (salty and processed foods), licorice-containing products, energy drinks, alcoholic beverages, and foods high in added sugars or ultraprocessed ingredients. These foods should be consumed with caution, especially by individuals with or at risk for hypertension. Adopting a diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease 1246+1 MORE.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Food Products That May Cause an Increase in Blood Pressure
High-sodium food products, energy drinks, liquorice-containing food products, and alcoholic beverages have hypertensinogenic properties, requiring avoidance for patients with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
Important Food Sources of Fructose-Containing Sugars and Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Controlled Trials
Fruit decreases blood pressure, while excess calories from sugar-sweetened beverages, sweets, and mixed sources increase it, with fruit being the exception.
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