Lower blood pressure and reduce heart disease risk with popular sweet treat

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition that frequently goes undetected because of its mild symptoms. Yet, without treatment, it can result in severe heart problems including heart attacks and strokes. Health experts have indicated that particular foods can assist in keeping blood pressure levels low. Remarkably, one of these is the widely adored sweet indulgence - chocolate. Blood pressure is recorded using two figures and is considered high if the measurement surpasses 140/90 mmHg. The NHS recommends taking multiple readings across the day, with an average worked out to most accurately establish risk levels. Those at greater risk of high blood pressure include people who are overweight, eat a high-salt diet, or maintain an inactive lifestyle. While some may require medication to regulate their blood pressure, others can manage and prevent it through a well-balanced, low-fat diet. So, how does chocolate, frequently branded as an unhealthy treat, help in reducing blood pressure? Here's everything you need to know, alongside other foods that can fight hypertension, reports Surrey Live . Chocolate, abundant in flavonoids, can assist in widening blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure. Cocoa products are packed with flavonoids, with cocoa powder, dark chocolate, and, to a smaller extent, milk chocolate being valuable sources. The flavonoids found in dark chocolate have long been associated with blood pressure-reducing properties. Dr Karin Ried from the University of Adelaide, Australia , explained: "Flavanols [a type of flavonoids] have been shown to increase the formation of endothelial nitric oxide, which promotes vasodilation and consequently may lower blood pressure." Despite this, she cautioned: "There have, however, been conflicting results as to the real-life effects of eating chocolate. We've found that consumption can significantly, albeit modestly, reduce blood pressure for people with high blood pressure but not for people with normal blood pressure." Research published in the National Library of Medicine examined the impact of flavonoid-rich foods on high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, aiming to evaluate their effectiveness on heart health risk factors, including blood pressure levels. The results indicate that regularly enjoying cocoa could assist in reducing blood pressure, thereby lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. For those looking to keep their blood pressure in check, additional beneficial foods include: Citrus fruits Green leafy vegetables Salmon Berries Beans Pistachios Beetroot