The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics did a study that showed that postmenopausal women who suffered from a high blood pressure experienced a 5% decrease in systolic blood pressure and 6% decrease in diastolic blood pressure after adding a daily blueberry smoothie to their diets. The study also showed a 69% decrease in the blood levels of nitric oxide, which helps in increasing the blood flow through the widening of blood vessels.
What’s the reason behind the decrease?
According to the researchers, this decrease is due to the antioxidant properties of the flavonoid, such as anthocyanins, which is relevant to the production of nitric oxide and the reduction of inflammation.
Blueberries smoothie recipe:
- 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 banana
- 8 oz to 81/2 oz of Hemp Milk
- 1 tablespoon of Almond Butter
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- If your smoothie is too thick, you can add some extra milk and blend again.
Drinking this smoothie first thing in the morning might help you lower your blood pressure. However, you mustn’t discontinue any medication prescribed to you by your doctor. Even if you notice a lower blood pressure after you include the smoothie in your everyday diet, make sure to consult your doctor before discontinuing any medication.
