A health expert on This Morning has revealed the three foods which can help to reduce blood pressure.
Dr Chris Steele appeared on the ITV show today to discuss all the biggest health headlines, with the health expert revealing three foods that a person can consume every day to help reduce their blood pressure.
The doctor said it was particularly useful for those who were suffering with hypertension.
He said that all three foods - which are easy to buy in any supermarket - can be consumed daily to help reduce blood pressure, which he says is particularly useful for those who struggle with high blood pressure.
"Having yoghurt each day, and that is normal natural yoghurt, not one that is fruit flavoured or with added sugar. Ideally, live yoghurt if you can get it," Dr Steele said in a chat with Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby.
"They also advise having walnuts every day and also herbal tea, specifically hibiscus tea. So the yoghurt, the walnuts and the hibiscus tea they say will reduce your levels of blood pressure, especially if you're suffering from hypertension."
The original report from the University of South Australia states that yoghurt is particularly helpful.
Dr Alexandra Wade, a researcher from the University, explained: "Dairy foods, especially yoghurt, may be capable of reducing blood pressure. This is because dairy foods contain a range of micronutrients, including calcium, magnesium and potassium, all of which are involved in the regulation of blood pressure. Yoghurt is especially interesting because it also contains bacteria that promote the release of proteins which lowers blood pressure.”
Elsewhere, other reports suggest juice can help to reduce blood pressure - particularly lemon juice.
It is believed this is because citrus fruits are full of vitamins and minerals. 101 Japanese women participated in a study where they combined daily lemon juice consumption with walking. There was a reduction in blood pressure levels, which report was credited to the citric acid and flavonoid content of lemons.
Blood Pressure UK said: "Fruit and veg are an essential part of a healthy diet, helping to stave off numerous health problems. Eating fruit and veg directly counters the effect of salt, which contains sodium, which raises your blood pressure.
"They’re rich in different vitamins and minerals which keep your body healthy, plus they’re low in calories and high in fibre which helps with digestion and heart health."
