Cutting back on sodium may help lower blood pressure. There s no way to predict whose blood pressure may be sodium-sensitive, but healthy normal adults are advised to consume no more than 2,400 milligrams of sodium daily. Eat more fiber, fruits and vegetables. Oatmeal, oat bran, rice, wheat bran, barley and beans may help lower blood cholesterol levels. That s because these fiber-rich foods may help take cholesterol away before it can be absorbed into your bloodstream.
Recent studies suggest a link between high intakes of fruits and vegetables and heart health.
Fruits and vegetables provide essential antioxidant vitamins such as beta-carotene, and vitamins A and C. Fruits and vegetables such as oranges, bananas, okra, potatoes and tomatoes supply a lot of potassium which may help control blood pressure. Maintain or improve your weight. The more excess body fat you have, the greater your risk for heart disease. Another point to consider is where your body stores extra fat. Those who carry a spare tire around their middle have a higher cardiac risk than those with extra padding in their hips and thighs.