Eating type of fruit can slash risk of 'silent killer' condition, study finds

Incorporating a particular healthy snack into your daily diet could significantly reduce the risk of hypertension, which is described as a "silent killer" condition. Consuming a certain fruit may help lower blood pressure and decrease the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke, according to studies.

Hypertension, widely known but often symptom-free, poses the risk of serious heart complications, with about one-third of UK individuals affected by the condition, many unaware they have it, experts suggest. The British Heart Foundation cautions: "If you have high blood pressure, you may not even know about it - that's why high blood pressure is often called the 'silent killer'."

There are seldom any symptoms, hence many people remain oblivious to their condition. However, adjusting one's diet to include specific foods could assist in reducing blood pressure. Studies demonstrate the benefits of consuming potassium-rich foods for managing blood pressure, reports the Express.

Potassium lowers blood pressure by aiding the body in eliminating sodium and easing arterial wall tension. A 2022 study by Dutch researchers indicated that high potassium diets could negate the effects of elevated sodium levels, which can cause high blood pressure. The research found this effect to be particularly pronounced in women.

A study published in the European Heart Journal has revealed that eating potassium-rich foods like bananas could reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes by 13 percent. The research analysed data from nearly 25,000 Brits and found that those who regularly consumed foods high in potassium had a lower chance of suffering from these health issues.

Other potassium-rich foods include leafy greens, salmon, tuna, beans, apricots and avocados. Hypertension symptoms can often be unclear, but certain lifestyle habits and unchangeable factors can increase your risk.

According to the British Heart Foundation, risk factors include living in deprived areas or being of black African or black Caribbean descent. Changes to diet or activity level can impact blood pressure, with a healthy diet and regular exercise helping to lower risk.