The diet of hypertensives is often limited, but there are many products that are not only safe but also useful for maintaining blood pressure within normal limits. One of these products experts call olive oil.
According to a study conducted by scientists at the University of La Trob (Melbourne), daily consumption of olive oil of the first spin can have a positive effect on blood pressure - without the need for medical intervention.
Within the experiment, 50 participants used about 1.5 tablespoons of oil for three weeks. Half of them received unrefined Extra Virgin oil, the rest - refined olive oil. However, none of the participants took medicines for hypertension.
After the experiment was completed, the participants who consumed the first spin oil, the average pressure decreased by 2.5%. The second group of significant changes was not recorded.
Researchers explain this with a high content of polyphenols in unrefined oil. These compounds have anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In addition, the composition of the oil contains unsaturated fatty acids, which contribute to the purification of blood vessels of cholesterol, improving their elasticity and, accordingly, affecting the decrease in pressure.
In addition to olive oil, experts advise to pay attention to foods with high content of potassium, magnesium and vitamin C. In particular, citrus, spinach, beet, garlic, ginger and leafy vegetables are useful for normalization of pressure. Potassium and magnesium help maintain the electrolyte balance, and vitamin C improves the condition of blood vessels and protects them from damage.
