How Does Potassium Lower Blood Pressure?
According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), at least one in every three adults in the U.S. has high blood pressure. That means that more than 60 million Americans who have the condition are at increased risk for heart disease, stroke and kidney failure. Studies show that although hypertension is not a normal condition of aging, many individuals develop high blood pressure, as they get older. The good news is that diet can help lower high blood pressure and maintain normal blood pressure. Since high sodium and low potassium levels in the body lead to high blood pressure, watching what you eat plays a critical role. Increasing dietary consumption of potassium rich foods can help to both lower and control blood pressure.