Lower your BP at your Memorial Day cookout

I hope you’ve made some time to unwind today…

And hopefully the weather in your area has been good enough to head off to a Memorial Day BBQ!

Because today of all days is one where you don’t need to STRESS… or have your BLOOD PRESSURE shoot through the roof!

But before you think about reaching from those BP meds… today I want to clue you in on an ingredient that’s going to be abundant at your Memorial Day cookout that can lower your BP naturally!

According to a study published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine, multiple clinical trials have found that incorporating lycopene into your diet can reduce blood pressure levels.

Yes, the same compound found in tomatoes, tomato products, and watermelon!

These studies have found that depending on how high your blood pressure is, lycopene can reduce systolic blood pressure (the top number) levels anywhere from 2.6 to 10 points!

And if you battle high blood pressure, a few points can make a HUGE difference in your readings!

Lycopene is a potent antioxidant that can block oxidative stress within blood vessel walls. This allows blood vessels to pump nitric oxide more effectively throughout your body, which helps your blood vessels ‘relax’ so blood can pass through more easily.

And getting your daily dose of lycopene isn’t going to make you feel dizzy – an all-to-common side effect of blood pressure meds.

It’s worth noting that while some may consider lycopene a health benefit of ketchup, remember that ketchup is loaded with added sugars, so don’t overdo it.

So, if you want to get your lycopene from a natural source, add a thick tomato to your burger… dive into a juicy slice of watermelon… stir up some homemade pasta sauce, or make some fresh stewed tomatoes.

You can also find lycopene supplements at your local pharmacy or big box store. If you do go the supplement route, be sure to stick with the dosage listed on the product label.

You should also talk to your doctor about lycopene if you have high blood pressure, and if you’re on any prescription medications.

To a healthy BP,

Sarah Reagan

Sources:

Daniells, Stephen. Meta-analysis supports lycopene’s blood pressure benefits. https://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Article/2022/02/11/meta-analysis-supports-lycopene-s-blood-pressure-benefits