Foods like apples, berries and tea are as effective in lowering blood pressure as the healthiest foods in the world.
Research published in the medical journal Scientific Reports has found that foods rich in flavonols, a specific plant component, are extremely helpful in lowering blood pressure.
The study, from the University of Reading in the UK, looked at the eating habits of more than 25,000 people, examined the amount of flavonols in their diet and then compared them to blood pressure numbers.
The results showed a significant reduction in blood pressure (2 to 4 mmHg) in those who consumed large amounts of flavonols.
Research has shown that this is especially beneficial for people who suffer from high blood pressure at the beginning of the study.
The reduction was the same as for diets specific to blood pressure patients.
These include the Dash Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), which uses less salt and more grains, nuts and fruits.
According to research, foods rich in flavonols do not significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease or death. However, the researchers said that it has a number of complex elements, but it can still be beneficial for heart health.
"It does reduce the risk to some extent, but it doesn't reduce it enough to identify our tools."
Research has shown that foods high in flavonols include tea, apples and berries.
In contrast, coffee has lower levels of flavonols and is replaced by other antioxidants, including other flavonoids.
It may be recalled that during a function at Dow Medical College this week, experts had said that the problem of high blood pressure has become common in Pakistan and patients usually go to hospitals when they have the disease.
Professor Nawaz Lashari, head of the Department of Cardiology, said it was about measuring and controlling blood pressure, which helps people live longer and healthier lives.
"Risks can be reduced without medication, including less salt and sugar, a balanced diet, daily exercise and a less stressful life."
High blood pressure is a silent killer that can severely damage many parts of the body, including the kidneys and eyes.
