Healthy eating

What you eat makes a huge difference to your blood pressure and your overall health.

There’s a lot of information available but it can sometimes be confusing – too much salt can raise your blood pressure, but how do you know if you’re eating too much? Eating your 5-a-day of fruit and veg can lower it, but how can you fit that in every day?

Take a look at the foods and nutrients that can affect your blood pressure, and how to lower your blood pressure naturally with a few simple changes to your diet. Eating well can be easier, cheaper and more fun that you think.

• Salt
  Salt raises your blood pressure but it’s hard to know how much you’re eating because it’s hidden in the foods we buy. See how you can eat less.

• Fruit and vegetables
  We know that fruit and vegetables are good for us but find out how they lower your blood pressure, and how to eat more.

• Fats and cholesterol
  How much fat you eat, and the type of fat is important for your heart health. Too much saturated fat can raise your blood cholesterol and clog up your arteries. See how you can cut back.

• Sugar
  Foods and drinks high in sugar can make you put on weight, raising your blood pressure. Find out how to eat less.

• Potassium
  Potassium is a mineral that helps to lower your blood pressure. Follow our tips to eat more.

• Understanding food labels
  Learn how to read food labels so you can see at a glance which foods will keep your blood pressure healthy.

• Blood pressure-friendly foods
  Find out which foods to keep your fridge and cupboards stocked with to keep your blood pressure and your body healthy.

• Blood pressure-friendly recipes
  Healthy recipes don’t mean tasteless recipes. Have a look at our selection to give you ideas for delicious healthy meals.

• If you’re from an African Caribbean or South Asian background  
  Your ethnic background can make a difference to your risk of high blood pressure. See how you can take control by changing what you eat.

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