Flavonoids in dark chocolate. Some data says eating 1 square daily decreases blood pressure. Experts disagree on this effect's importance.
Garlic allicin lowers blood pressure and relaxes arteries. A significant study found that garlic lowers blood pressure in hypertensives and non-hypertensives.
Whole grains including brown rice, oats, and bran lower blood pressure. Like pistachios, scientists don't know why.
Pistachios may lower blood pressure, but scientists don't know why. Some researchers attribute it to pistachios' monounsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols.
Beets are a superfood because of their nitrates and antioxidants. Most beet health research focus on juice.
Broccoli nitric oxide and flavonoids. We lower blood pressure. A study indicated that broccoli four times a week decreases blood pressure more than once a month.
Nitrate-rich leafy greens include collards, cabbage, spinach, and kale. Nitric oxide relaxes blood arteries by converting nitrates.
Anthocyanins are found in blueberries, raspberries, and chokeberries. Several studies show these flavonoids reduce blood pressure.
Potassium-rich bananas. Potassium lowers blood pressure two ways: This relaxes blood vessels. A body eliminates excess salt.
Yogurt magnesium, calcium, and potassium reduce blood pressure. It has live bacteria and yeast probiotics.