Low BP diet: Low blood pressure or hypotension is a condition when blood pressure drops below normal levels. Due to this, enough oxygen and nutrients are not able to reach the body parts. Its symptoms can include fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, fainting and slow heartbeat. If this condition persists for a long time, it can be dangerous for the heart, kidneys and brain.
What is the role of diet in low BP?
Diet plays the most important role in controlling low BP. According to dietitian Dr. Raksha Mehra, such patients should include things rich in iron, vitamin B12 and folate in their diet, as they help in making blood and give strength to the body. Egg, milk, curd, green vegetables, beetroot, pomegranate, banana and sprouts are considered very beneficial for low BP patients.
Take care of hydration and salt
Lack of water in the body can also be a major reason for falling BP. Therefore, drink at least 2.5 to 3 liters of water daily. Also, liquid drinks like coconut water, buttermilk, lemonade and ORS also keep the body hydrated and help in BP. Consuming a small amount of salt as per the doctor’s advice can also be beneficial, because the sodium present in salt helps in increasing blood pressure.
Eat small amounts several times a day
Low BP patients should avoid eating heavy meals at once. Instead, eat light meals 4-5 times a day so that the body continues to get energy and blood circulation remains stable. Also, you can take soaked raisins, dates, peanuts, makhana or lightly salted snacks once a day.
What things to avoid?
Low BP patients should not eat caffeinated things, very sweet, fried and very oily food. These things can make the body lethargic and BP can suddenly drop. Alcohol consumption also increases dehydration in the body, which can worsen the condition of low BP. Staying hungry for a long time or eating too much at once is also harmful.
