High Blood Pressure
Low potassium level in the blood is also linked to high blood pressure. While most people only know that lowering sodium or salt consumption helps lower blood pressure, adding potassium to the diet also plays a vital role in maintaining blood pressure.
Kidneys use potassium to help them excrete extra sodium through urine. Insufficient potassium in the blood causes the kidneys to reabsorb sodium into the bloodstream, which may eventually cause high blood pressure.
Most frequently, this happens when there is a low potassium level in a person’s diet, mainly when there is hypokalemia. Consequently, having sufficient potassium in the diet can help some people maintain good blood pressure.
For people who want to maintain healthy blood pressure while trying to lose weight, it’s ideal to include foods high in potassium and low in carbohydrates and calories in their diet. The best foods that fit these criteria are broccoli, spinach, water chestnuts, and other leafy greens. Also consider sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and fruits like kiwi, cantaloupe, and nectarines, although these are a little higher in calories and carbs.
It is advisable for a person with high blood pressure to discuss monitoring and treatment options with a healthcare provider.
