Everyday foods that may increase your blood pressure

If you're concerned about your blood pressure, you must watch out for these everyday things that may lead to a spike, putting extra stress on your blood vessels and the heart.

Firstly, salt is not the only thing you must watch out for. Processed sugars in foods like high fructose corn syrup may play a role. Avoid sugar-sweetened drinks and beverages to keep your BP under check.

Too much alcohol may also enhance your blood pressure. Some alcoholic drinks are high in calories and sugar, which may increase the risk of hypertension.

Avoid saturated and trans fats, which are used to enhance the shelf life of packaged foods.They lower the good cholesterol levels in the the blood.

While the role of caffeine is still under debate, it is believed that caffeine may raise BP up to 10 mm Hg even in people who barely consume it.

Lifestyle also plays an important role in treating high BP, sometimes even eliminating the need for medication. You might want to shed some kilos to control blood pressure spikes. Exercise regularly, walking, cycling, swimming or jogging may help reduce BP.