Drink Your Way to Lower Blood Pressure: 5 Beverages You Need to Know

A concerning statistic reveals that one in every five Israelis suffers from high blood pressure. Is it surprising? Not really. The cost of living, wars, traffic congestion, and even just hot weather can definitely cause stress, which is one of the main contributors to rising blood pressure. But there's no need to worry too much — there are effective ways to manage the situation.

What Is Blood Pressure Anyway?

Blood pressure is the force that blood exerts on the walls of blood vessels. Both extremely high and low blood pressure can weaken the body and negatively impact health.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is influenced by genetic and environmental factors as well as physical activity, diet, smoking, and stress.

Mental stress raises cortisol levels in the blood vessels, causing the heart to work harder.

Belly fat puts pressure on blood vessels and the heart, affecting blood flow.

Lack of vitamins such as Vitamin D, C, magnesium, and potassium can also contribute to rising blood pressure.

We’ve gathered five (surprising) beverages that can help lower blood pressure. Just give them a try.

1. Hibiscus Tea

A herbal tea made from the hibiscus flower. Brew the tea in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, twice daily, and drink it for at least six weeks. Studies show this tea is as effective as medication, thanks to the anthocyanins found in it.

(Photo: shutterstock)

2. Garlic Water

This might not be your favorite drink, but garlic water can significantly assist with lowering blood pressure.

How to prepare:

Crush two garlic cloves, add a squeeze of lemon, and a teaspoon of olive oil in half a liter of water. Mix and refrigerate for an hour. Drink every morning on an empty stomach. You can sweeten it with a natural sweetener.

How does it work? Garlic contains a blood-thinning compound called allicin. The allicin molecule forms as a result of crushing the garlic cloves. It's important to mix in olive oil, as it helps the body absorb the compound.

3. Celery Juice

If you have a juicer for fruits and hard vegetables, you can make fresh celery juice daily. Even blending celery stalks with water in a blender will work. Celery contains chemicals that reduce cortisol, significantly lowering stress levels in the body. You'll find that alongside lowering your blood pressure, your sleep quality improves, and your skin glows more beautifully.

(Photo: shutterstock)

4. Electrolyte Drink

Electrolyte drinks contain easily digestible carbohydrates to provide available energy. Home-made electrolyte drinks have enormous health benefits, with far less sugar than store-bought alternatives. This DIY drink is full of vitamins, potassium, and magnesium — all substances that lower blood pressure and support the heart's electrical system to keep a steady beat.

To make the drink, blend the following ingredients: a cup of blueberries, a lemon with its peel, half an avocado, and half a liter of water – drink it daily.

5. Ashwagandha Tea

Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb aiding in stress management. It has been used in Indian medicine for centuries. It’s excellent for balancing body systems, helping to lower cortisol levels, and enhancing thyroid function. You can purchase the powder at health food stores and brew the tea according to the directions.

Remember that a balanced diet, deep breathing throughout the day, time in nature, healthy eating, and physical activity also contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure and should be incorporated into your daily routine. Here's to your health!

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before starting any supplement or dietary changes.