About 1.13 billion people around the world suffer from high blood pressure and it’s also a main cause of premature death. But, do you know that low blood pressure is also among the most serious diseases. Once the blood pressure drops it is difficult to increase it quickly.
Blood pressure is measured in mm Hg (millimeters of mercury) and indicated in 2 numbers – systolic (first number) and diastolic (second number) blood pressure. The normal rate of blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg, however, this numbers can slightly differ even in healthy people. When the numbers are higher, we consider it as high blood pressure or hypertension. When your blood pressure is lower than 90/60 mm Hg, it is called hypotension or low blood pressure.
Symptoms of Hypotension
You don’t need to worry if you have slightly low blood pressure or single lower-than-normal blood pressure. Because normally blood pressure changes during the day depending on our activities and if nothing troubles you, no need to panic. Doctors consider hypotension as dangerous when the blood pressure is too low or when it becomes chronical. You can also diagnose it at home with the following noticeable signs and symptoms:
Dizziness
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Unusual thirst
Nausea
Fainting
Lack of concentration
Depression
Cold and clammy skin
Sweating
Rapid breathing
What causes low blood pressure
There are plenty of causes for hypotension and they can be related either to age, overall health condition or medical history. Here are the causes why low blood pressure can occur:
Pregnancy. It is normal situation to have low blood pressure during pregnancy. It usually drops in the first 24 weeks and this is good, because blood pressure increases considerably while giving birth.
Endocrine problems. Problems with hormone-producing glands, low blood sugar or diabetes can cause hypotension.
Extreme allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). It usually happens with people who are sensitive to some kind of products. Anaphylactic shock then causes breathing problems and sudden drop in blood pressure.
Dehydration. Dehydration is one of the main reasons for low blood pressure. Because of dehydration happens reduces in blood volume.
Heart diseases. Having very low heart rate, heart attack and problems with heart valves can lead to decreased blood pressure.
Infection. When you got infected the bacteria may enter the bloodstream and produce toxins. These toxins affect the normal work of blood vessels and causes decrease in blood pressure.
Certain medications. Some heart medications, antidepressants, drugs for Parkinson’s disease and erectile dysfunction, and other over-the-counter medications can lower blood pressure.
Stress. In some people stress can increase and in others it can lower the blood pressure. Feeling strong emotions like fear or intense anxiety affects the blood pressure.
Deficiency of nutrients. One of causes of low blood pressure is anemia, which is a sign of folic acid and B12 vitamins deficiency.
What to eat to raise low blood pressure
Drink more
If the reason of disease is dehydration, the solution is drinking more fluids. When you provide your body with enough water, the blood volume will increase, so the blood pressure too.
Get enough nutrients
Healthy eating and balanced diet are the key factors for being healthy. Reduce the amount of oily, spicy foods and sweets; instead increase consumption of foods that are enriched with nutrients. Especially, important to get folate or folic acid and vitamin B12 in adequate amount. Good sources of folate are broccoli, peas, leafy green vegetables, chickpeas, cereals and liver. B12 you can find in products like fish, meat, milk, eggs and cheese.
Salty food
We have many times heard that salty food is bad for our organisms. This is true, but surprisingly, for people with low blood pressure salty food helps to increase blood pressure. Try to eat canned soup, pickled vegetables, olive, cottage cheese and smoked fish.
Caffeine
Beverages containing caffeine such as coffee and black tea can boost blood pressure for short time. If you notice a sudden drop of blood pressure just drink a cup of coffee or tea and blood pressure will increase significantly. This happens because caffeine helps to boost heart rate and stimulate cardiovascular system.
Grapes
Many don’t know, but grapes and raisins are also helpful in hypotension. Eat 30-35 berries in the morning before breakfast and it will help to normalize blood pressure.
Carrot juice and beet juice
Carrot juice helps to improve blood circulation, as a result blood pressure will go up. Similarly, red beet is also beneficial for people with low blood pressure. One of the causes of low blood pressure is anemia and red beet juice will help you to prevent anemia.
Eat small portions
Last but not the least, if you used to eat three full meals in a day, it is better to split your mealtime into five times. Dietitians recommend eating in small portions several times. This way you can protect your blood pressure from sudden drop. Moreover, this eating ration is great for people with diabetes.
Foods to avoid
Well, we have identified what food will help when blood pressure is too low; now let’s talk about foods to avoid. Mainly these are products that are rich in anthocyanin and potassium. Blueberries, strawberries, banana, pomegranate and its juice, cinnamon and dark chocolate – these influence your blood pressure and may cause its reduction. Also, stop consuming alcohol; it is good for your blood pressure and your overall health condition.
Even if you have experienced single too low blood reduction, do not ignore it. Starting the treatment on time will help to prevent further negative outcomes. Incorporate your balanced diet with adequate physical activity and do not forget to talk to your health provider on time.
Recommended articles:
