Researchers have found that drinking a glass (8oz/250ml) of beetroot juice may lower blood pressure readings by as much as 7% (10mm hg).

Beetroot contains high levels of dietary nitrate – also found in celery, cabbage and some lettuces – which causes a chemical reaction in the blood, increasing oxygen in areas of the body which are lacking supply including the brain.

Beetroot juice can be bought from most supermarkets.

Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke and kidney failure.  About 16 million people in the UK suffer from high blood pressure where the reading is over 140/90 mm Hg.  Unfortunately there are no symptoms of hypertension although on rare occasions the following symptoms may indicate it:

  • a persistent headache
  • blurred or double vision
  • nosebleeds
  • shortness of breath

If you suffer any of these get your GP to take your blood pressure as soon as possible.

To read the full article click on the following link:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-22152901

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