THE RISK OF HYPERTENSION; AND 5 BEST TEAS TO MANAGE IT.

THE RISK OF HYPERTENSION; AND 5 BEST TEAS TO MANAGE IT.

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure is a deadly disease that has no cure but can be managed well. This article explains the risk of hypertension and highlights the 5 best teas that manage it perfectly.

High blood pressure is a condition where the pressure in the blood vessels is too high, this causes the heart to work too much and eventually damages the arteries. High blood pressure is often referred to as a silent killer because most people with high blood pressure do not experience any symptoms. The best way to know will be to get checked regularly.

Two measurements make up the blood pressure reading;

1. Systolic: This is the top number, it measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.
2. Diastolic: This is the bottom number, it measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats.

Normal blood pressure is lower than 120/80mmhg(120 being the systolic reading and 80 being the diastolic reading).

According to an article by the WHO, https://tinyurl.com/4u2vpfah, Hypertension is diagnosed if, when it is measured on two different days, the systolic blood pressure readings on both days are≥140 mmHg and/or the diastolic blood pressure readings on both days is ≥90 mmHg.

What causes hypertension:

Hypertension is an illness that develops over time. It has no known cause, but certain lifestyles and activities can put a person at risk of developing it.

There are:

1. Unhealthy diet: Constantly eating a diet full of fats, high in salt, and low in fruits and vegetables may lead to hypertension.
2. Genetics: It is often transferred through genes from parent to child.
3. Obesity: Blood pressure increases as the body’s weight increases. The heart has to do more work, which puts the individual at risk of hypertension.
4. Stress: Chronic stress affects blood pressure. Stress hormones compress the blood vessels, this makes the heart work harder and can cause a spike in blood pressure.
5. Smoking: Smoking causes a temporary rise in blood pressure. The sympathetic nervous system is activated, each time a person smoke. Over time this can damage the vessel in the heart and lead to hypertension.
6. Age: Research shows that blood pressure rises as people get older, this is because the arteries stiffen with age.

What are the dangers of high blood pressure: 

1. Heart Attack
2. Stroke
3. Kidney disease/failure
4. Vision Loss
5. Sexual Dysfunction
6. Death

  5 Best Tea to Manage Hypertension: 

1. Hibiscus Tea: Hibiscus tea also known as Zobo tea is a herbal tea made from the hibiscus plant. It can be consumed hot or cold and often comes with added ginger and lemon for a better taste. It is an antioxidant that helps treat several illnesses, it also acts as an ace inhibitor that manages blood pressure. Studies have shown it to lower blood pressure effectively. It has no side effects but may interact with other BP drugs. It can be taken at any time of the day. Some recommended hibiscus teas are Nozie Zoboo Red Tea (Hibiscus & Ginger), Sweet Tea Zobo Drink (Hibiscus & Ginger). 
2. Pomegranate Tea: This tea is made from pomegranate seeds, flowers, or juice extract. Its anti-inflammatory components make it effective in lowering blood pressure. If taken alongside BP medications, it may lead to hypotension(Low blood pressure) It can be taken at any time of the day. Some recommended pomegranate teas are Samira Green Tea Pomegranate, Steep by BIGELOW Organic Green Tea & Pomegranate. 
3. Grapefruit Tea: This is a refreshing tea made from grapefruit. Grapefruit is a citrus fruit with a sweet and sour flavor. It is a good source of vitamin C, Potassium and high in fiber. It contains antioxidants. It is high in polyphenols which helps to manage hypertension. It may interact with other BP drugs and should be taken alone.
4. Lemon and Ginger Tea: Lemon and ginger are two natural ingredients that possess a lot of health benefits. This tea is made from a natural blend of ginger and lemon.  Ginger and Lemon have anti-oxidants that make them excellent at managing blood pressure. Some recommended lemon and ginger tea are: Alokozay Ginger & Lemon Tea, LBE Lifegate Lemon & Ginger Green Tea.
5. Chia Seeds Infused Water: Chia seeds are edible seeds of a flowery plant with numerous health benefits. There contain quercetin, an anti-oxidants that treats and manages diseases. It is high in fiber and is excellent for managing high blood pressure. Soak chia seeds for an hour, add half a lemon, and consume first thing in the morning. Chia seeds interact with medications for BP, and taking both at the same time can lead to low blood pressure(hypotension).
6. ia seeds are:

SUMMARY 

Hypertension is a serious illness that often time show no symptom. It is important to check your BP regularly and make some lifestyle changes to manage it. It cannot be treated only managed. The teas above are great for managing BP and should be included in your daily routine.

 

WRITTEN BY:

SHARON KANU