Phillip Schofield gets blood pressure checked in Istanbul in 1991
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High blood pressure or hypertension is a condition which can contribute to various heart ailments like heart attack, stroke and even kidney ailments. These are the reasons why it is extremely important to keep a check on your blood pressure and make sure that it is at normal levels. By adding a certain spice in your diet, you could help lower your readings and reduce hypertension risk.
Turmeric is a popular yellow spice originating from southern Asia. It’s an essential ingredient in many Indian dishes.
Turmeric is popular among the health conscious for its antioxidant curcumin which helps in lowering blood pressure.
Its antioxidant properties are responsible for regulating blood pressure in the body.
Curcumin also protects against vascular dysfunction in the body.
In a study published in the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, the effect of curcumin/turmeric on blood pressure was further investigated.
A total of 11 studies comprising of 734 participants were involved in the study with their blood pressure monitored after turmeric supplements were administered.
The study concluded that consuming curcumin/turmeric may improve systolic blood pressure when administered in long durations.
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Apart from regulating blood pressure, turmeric could also help in reducing damage caused by high blood pressure.
A common reason behind heart ailments is an accumulation of plaque in arteries.
Plaque narrows arteries and slows blood flow to the heart, brain, and various other body parts.
Having high blood pressure, in this case, causes further damage to tissues in arteries. LDL (or bad) cholesterol begins to deposit in arteries in the form of plaque in the walls of arteries.
Curcumin in turmeric can help in preventing further damage caused to arteries because of high blood pressure.
Turmeric is a key ingredient in curry powder and also has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, said British Heart Foundation dietician Victoria Taylor.
She added: “The active ingredient is curcumin, which has been found to reduce inflammation and increase antioxidants.
“There has been some research into whether these properties could protect against heart disease or improve outcomes for people with coronary heart disease.
“However, although studies have had some positive results, these have not been consistent.”
Other ways to lower your readings
Blood Pressure UK explains: “Being active lowers your blood pressure by keeping your heart and blood vessels in good shape, lowering your risk of heart disease and stroke.”
According to the health body, one should focus on aerobic activities as these will help your heart and blood vessels most but avoid activities which put too much strain on your heart.
Aerobic exercises are repetitive and rhythmic movements which get your heart, lungs, blood vessels and muscles working.
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