What foods can help raise low blood pressure?
Dec 13, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Dongfeng
Introduction
For chronic hypotension without obvious symptoms, it is advisable to regularly consume foods such as eggs, shrimp, beef, chicken, and soft-shelled turtle.
For hypotension accompanied by marked fatigue and weakness, a poached egg cooked with Codonopsis root (Dangshen) and brown sugar may be consumed each morning. During winter, a nourishing soup made with Codonopsis root and an old hen is recommended.
Hypotension is a medical condition characterized by systemic arterial blood pressure below the normal range—specifically, below 90/60 mmHg. In addition to following their physician’s instructions, individuals with hypotension should maintain regular daily routines, cultivate a positive mental outlook, and engage in appropriate physical exercise. Notably, dietary adjustment is also a critically important component of management. Specific recommendations are as follows:
Dietary Recommendations for Hypotension
The number of individuals diagnosed with hypotension continues to rise annually, especially among middle-aged and older adults. To prevent or mitigate hypotension, it is essential to ensure adequate intake of diverse nutrients in daily life. Individuals with highly selective or unbalanced diets are at greater risk of developing low blood pressure; if left unaddressed, hypotension may lead to more serious health consequences.
In fact, hypotension can often be effectively managed through everyday dietary modifications. Patients should pay close attention to their diet—ensuring balanced nutrition, regular meal timing, and comprehensive nutrient intake—to maintain overall health. It is particularly important to consume foods rich in vitamins. Since anemia can contribute to hypotension, patients should also increase their intake of high-protein foods; soy products are an excellent choice.
For individuals with chronic, asymptomatic hypotension, regularly consuming eggs, shrimp, beef, chicken, or soft-shelled turtle meat is recommended.
For those experiencing pronounced fatigue and weakness alongside hypotension, a breakfast of poached eggs cooked with Codonopsis (Dang Shen) and brown sugar is beneficial. During winter months, a nourishing soup made with Codonopsis and stewed hen is also recommended.
For individuals with hypotension accompanied by dizziness and palpitations, foods such as red dates (jujubes), lean pork, lamb, and pigeon meat are advised. In winter, lamb stewed with Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui) and ginger—and its broth—can be consumed for added benefit.
For those with hypotension associated with cold intolerance, lower back soreness, and related symptoms, frequent consumption of longan fruit, chestnuts, and walnuts is recommended. Additionally, a nourishing porridge prepared with longan fruit, Chinese yam (Shan Yao), coix seed (Yi Yi Ren), red dates, peanuts, rice, and millet may be consumed regularly.
Pregnant women with hypotension should consume easily digestible, protein-rich foods, such as chicken, eggs, fish, lotus seeds, red dates, mulberries, and milk.
We hope the above information proves helpful. Wishing you a joyful and healthy life!
