What should pregnant women with hypertension eat to lower blood pressure?
Jul 12, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Man
Introduction
Pregnant women with hypertension can consume fish, which is rich in unsaturated fatty acids. These act as antioxidants, helping to lower blood cholesterol levels, inhibit platelet aggregation, and effectively prevent systemic small-artery hardening and thrombosis—making fish an ideal food for blood pressure control during pregnancy. Expectant mothers are encouraged to eat more crucian carp and salmon, preferably prepared by steaming, boiling into soup, or cooking into congee.
Pregnant women often experience various health issues during gestation, making maternal health a critical concern. Some women develop hypertension during pregnancy—so what dietary measures can help lower blood pressure?
What Foods Help Lower Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?
Fish is an excellent food choice for managing pregnancy-induced hypertension. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids—potent antioxidants that reduce serum cholesterol levels, inhibit platelet aggregation, and effectively prevent systemic small-artery sclerosis and thrombosis, thereby aiding blood pressure control. Expectant mothers are encouraged to consume crucian carp and salmon regularly, preferably prepared by steaming, boiling into soups, or cooking into congee. Celery, with its robust fiber content and distinctive aroma, is abundant in beta-carotene, vitamin C, niacin, and dietary fiber. It exerts sedative, antihypertensive, heat-clearing, and blood-cooling effects, making it another ideal antihypertensive food for pregnant women.
Mung beans are also highly effective for lowering blood pressure. Regular consumption not only helps reduce blood pressure and alleviate associated symptoms but also prevents hyperlipidemia. Onions contain prostaglandin A, which reduces peripheral vascular resistance and blood viscosity—thus contributing to blood pressure reduction, mental alertness, stress relief, and cold prevention. They are particularly beneficial for lipid-lowering, preventing thrombosis, and controlling hypertension.
Pregnant women with hypertension should increase their intake of potassium- and calcium-rich, low-sodium foods such as potatoes, eggplants, kelp, and lettuce. These foods are highly effective in lowering and stabilizing blood pressure. We hope this article has been helpful. Wishing you a joyful life and optimal health!
