High blood pressure still poses a national health challenge, with a high prevalence of undesirable complications.
Fortunately, studies continue to yield promising evidence that targeted lifestyle interventions can help.
Dr Shintani, an MD and nutritionist with more than 40 years of experience, believes food alone can wean patients off medication.
He recommends five beverages to help bring the condition under control.
Pomegranate juice can promote healthy blood pressure
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Juices have become widely recognised for their potential to lower blood pressure due to their relaxing effects on blood vessels.
Among them is beetroot juice, which reduces blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels, according to Dr Shintani.
A meta-analysis of 43 trials, published in Science Direct, found evidence of a stronger effect at high doses and with longer durations of supplementation.
Researchers established that the juice’s blood pressure-lowering effects may even extend beyond its nitrate content, pointing to the possible effects of other bioactive compounds.
According to Dr Shintani, pomegranate juice works similarly, lowering blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin.
This helps open up blood vessels "much like some prescription medications", the doctor explained.
He continued: "Two of the most popular types of medications for blood pressure target the angiotensin hormone system, which controls the constriction and relaxation of blood vessels.
"Examples of these medications are lisinopril, captopril, and losartan."
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GETTYHibiscus tea is another excellent remedy; it inhibits the angiotensin system and helps release nitric oxide.
When studied in clinical settings, the juice has shown promise in reducing blood pressure in both mildly and pre-hypertensive patients.
Ginger tea lowers blood pressure by acting like a calcium channel blocker, which is another class of blood pressure medications.
"Number five is green tea and black tea—oolong tea," shared Dr. Shintani.
"They are all Camellia sinensis, which has a mild diuretic effect and blood vessel-relaxing effect, reducing blood pressure."
