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How to do Keto with High Blood Pressure?
There is no doubt that keto has become one of the most popular diets over the past few years, and for a good reason. This low-carb, high-fat diet offers countless health benefits, including weight loss, increased energy, and improved blood sugar control. However, one issue that many people with high blood pressure face is how to safely do keto without causing their blood pressure to skyrocket.
If you have high blood pressure, it is critical to talk to your doctor before starting any new diet, including keto. However, in this blog post, we will outline three methods that may be helpful to those who are looking to do keto with high blood pressure. Keep in mind that each person’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. As such, if you experience any adverse effects, it is essential to adjust your diet accordingly.
Method 1: Focus on Healthy Fats
One of the primary goals of the keto diet is to get your body into a state of ketosis, which is where your body burns fat for fuel and produces ketones. However, it is important to remember that not all fats are created equal, and some fats can be harmful to your health.
When following a ketogenic diet with high blood pressure, it is essential to focus on healthy fats. These fats typically come from oily fish, nuts and seeds, grass-fed butter, extra-virgin olive oil, and avocado oil. You should avoid unhealthy fats such as trans fats, hydrogenated oils, and fried foods, which can increase your risk of heart disease and other health issues.
Method 2: Avoid Processed Foods
Processed foods are a staple of the modern diet, but they are incredibly harmful to your health. They are high in salt, sugar, and trans fats and are often loaded with preservatives and artificial additives. Eating processed foods can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and a host of other health problems.
If you have high blood pressure, it is critical to avoid processed foods as much as possible when on a keto diet. Instead, focus on whole, unprocessed foods that are low in carbohydrates, such as leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, berries, and lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, and fish.
Method 3: Monitor Your Sodium Intake
Sodium is a crucial component of the human body, and it plays a role in regulating blood pressure, among other things. However, many processed foods have a high sodium content, which can lead to water retention and increased blood pressure.
When following a keto diet with high blood pressure, it is critical to monitor your sodium intake carefully. On a typical ketogenic diet, you may consume anywhere from 2,000 to 3,000 milligrams of sodium per day. However, if you have high blood pressure, it is essential to reduce your sodium intake to about 1,500 milligrams per day. This will help to lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health.
Conclusion
Keto can be a beneficial diet for those with high blood pressure, but it is essential to approach it with caution. By focusing on healthy fats, avoiding processed foods, and monitoring your sodium intake, you can safely begin your keto journey without putting your overall health at risk. As always, it is critical to consult with your doctor before starting any new diet or exercise regimen.
It is worth noting that the keto diet has been shown to have a wide range of benefits, both for those with high blood pressure and those without. Some of the most significant benefits include weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, increased energy, reduced inflammation, and improved cardiovascular health.
In conclusion, if you are looking to do keto with high blood pressure, it is essential to prioritize your health and take things slowly. By focusing on healthy fats, avoiding processed foods, and monitoring your sodium intake, you can safely begin your keto journey while keeping your blood pressure under control. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try today and start reaping the many benefits that the keto diet has to offer!