For years, reducing salt intake has been the go-to advice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy blood pressure.
High sodium levels have been linked to a range of serious health problems, from heart attacks and strokes to kidney disease.
But a new study from researchers at the University of Waterloo challenges this long-held belief.
Instead of focusing solely on sodium, these scientists looked at another essential nutrient that plays a major role in how the body manages blood pressure – and the results might surprise you.
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Using an advanced mathematical model, the researchers examined how the body reacts to different levels of potassium and sodium.
The balance between the two minerals could be far more important than the amount of salt you eat.
The surprising fruit
Enter the banana – a humble fruit that it’s cheap and is packed with potassium.
According to the study, increasing potassium intake through everyday foods like bananas could be even more effective at lowering blood pressure than reducing salt consumption alone.
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Potassium helps the body flush out excess sodium and relax blood vessels, two mechanisms that directly counteract high blood pressure.
In fact, the researchers found that boosting potassium levels in the diet had a significant positive impact on blood pressure, especially in men, who tend to develop hypertension more easily.
But bananas aren’t the only heroes.
Other potassium-rich foods include potatoes (with skin), sweet potatoes, spinach, beans, avocados, and dried apricots – all inexpensive, accessible choices for most people.
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It’s not just about less salt
The real breakthrough from the study is this: it’s not just about reducing sodium, but about increasing potassium at the same time.
It’s the ratio between the two that matters.
Western diets tend to be high in salt and low in potassium – the exact opposite of what our bodies seem to need.
By shifting this balance, you could significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke without relying on drastic dietary changes.
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So, next time you reach for the salt shaker, consider grabbing a banana instead – it might do more for your blood pressure than you think.
This article is based on information from The Sun.
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