This new evidence may revolutionize the way we treat high blood pressure! Decreasing sodium is widely known to lower blood pressure but increasing potassium could be equally beneficial. University of Southern California researcher, Alicia McDonough, found a correlation between increased dietary potassium and lower hypertension. McDonough is a Professor of Cell and Neurobiology at USC Keck School of Medicine.
Historically, we consumed primitive diets high in fruit, roots, vegetables, beans, and grains… all of which are high potassium, low sodium foods. Because of this, we evolved to crave sodium. To satisfy these cravings the modern western diet contains an abundance of processed foods with added salts and generally low potassium content.
The typical western diet significantly increases your risk of high blood pressure. Adults should be consuming at least 4.7 grams of potassium per day if they want to lower blood pressure, reduce the effects of sodium intake, and minimize risk of kidney stones and bone loss.
Try incorporating potassium-rich foods such as sweet potatoes, avocados, spinach, beans, bananas, and even coffee into your everyday diet. Your body will thank you in the long run!
Ask our office about potassium supplements during your next visit or call 831-625-3338.