High blood pressure is a very common condition, but not everyone knows that they are at risk. Your chances of developing symptoms of high blood pressure can be reduced by making some changes to your diet.
The condition can be controlled by eating more thyme, it is claimed.
Thyme is an herb commonly added to pickles or stews, and is the perfect addition to winter drinks.
It is claimed to inhibit a type of enzyme, known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which contributes to high blood pressure.
ACE causes the blood vessels to narrow, increasing pressure on blood flow around the body.
Thyme is also claimed to reduce the risk of heart disease and high cholesterol, according to dietitian Ryan Raman.
He wrote to Healthline: “Thyme is a flavorful herb that’s packed with many healthy compounds. Rosmarinic acid is one such compound. Research has linked it to many benefits, such as reducing inflammation and blood sugar levels, as well as increasing blood flow. It may also help lower blood pressure.” Animal studies showed that taking rosmarinic acid significantly helped reduce systolic blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a molecule that narrows blood vessels and raises blood pressure, so its inhibition may lower blood pressure.”
And if you’d rather not eat thyme because you don’t like its distinct flavors, there are plenty of other spices you can add to your blood pressure diet.
Cinnamon is a wonderful sweet alternative that is claimed to dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
The dietitian added that ginger works in a similar way to thyme because it is a natural ACE inhibitor.
But it’s important to remember that some spices can interact with any prescribed blood pressure medication, so talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet.