Hypertension troubles
Q: Dear Donovan,
I am hypertensive. Recently I drank sorrel and became very dizzy. Is there anything in it that could have elevated my pressure levels? What foods should I stay away from? Also, my medication at times causes my feet to gather water. Are there any exercises I can do to reduce this?
A: Hypertension is a chronic condition which causes the heart to work harder. In this condition the blood flow is met with resistance from the arteries. The high pressure of the blood can lead to stroke, heart attack and kidney failure. Hypertension is potentially fatal and should never be taken lightly.
You are thinking that the sorrel drink might have caused an increase in your blood pressure. Checking your blood pressure at the time you felt dizzy would have been helpful to determine your situation. An increase in blood pressure (hypertension) as well as a reduction in pressure (hypotension) can cause dizziness.
It is my suspicion that your blood was low after you drank the sorrel. Studies have shown that sorrel is useful to reduce blood pressure in rats as well as humans. A large part of this action is thought to be due to the relaxing effect of the sorrel on the blood vessels. Sorrel is also thought to reduce pressure by other chemical pathways in the body. In your case, drinking sorrel with your medication could be seen as taking a double dose of your medication, hence the dizziness. Therefore, you should be careful with sorrel while on your medication.
However, that aside, the sorrel plant, which has origins in Asia, is a wonderful plant. It contains nutraceuticals which have been shown to prevent and treat several diseases including diabetes, hypertension, cancer and heart disease, to name a few.
It is very important to avoid salt (sodium) and foods rich in salt — bacon, luncheon meats, corned meats, etc. Salt (sodium) has been shown to drastically increase blood pressure. However, potassium, magnesium and fibre may help control blood pressure. Fruits and vegetables are high in potassium, magnesium and fibre. Therefore, your diet should contain a healthy amount of fruits and vegetables.
It is also very important to reduce your intake of sugar. Sugar can lead to obesity. Studies have shown that hypertension is more common in people who are overweight. You did not mention what your weight is, but it is very important to keep your weight down.
In a nutshell, eating more fruits and vegetables and reducing your sugar intake can help to keep your weight down. Adding 12 ounces of green juice daily to your diet can also help your blood pressure. In addition, reducing your intake of animal products may also be helpful. Animal products contain cholesterol which can coat blood vessels causing an increase in blood pressure. I would suggest that you have a plant-based diet.
It is also important to get in some exercise. This will drastically help your blood pressure. But go at your own pace. However, with changing your lifestyle, it is important to keep a check on your blood pressure, and over time your medication might need adjustments. Keep up with your doctor. Good luck.
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Are you struggling to lose weight or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, Suite 16, 39 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 5. Send your questions to clarkep@ jamaicaobserver.com.
