A dietitian has recommended a snack made with ingredients many people already have at home that may help lower blood pressure. The suggestion comes as the NHS warns that hypertension can lead to serious problems such as heart attacks or strokes.
What the snack contains
Lauren Manaker MS, RDN, a dietitian based in Charleston, South Carolina, told Verywell Health that one of her favourite snacks for lowering blood pressure is a layer of orange slices and low-sodium cottage cheese, topped with a sprinkling of pistachios.
Oranges contain potassium, which the American Physiology Society says is "known to lower blood pressure and help the body get rid of excess sodium". The cottage cheese provides calcium, which can help regulate blood pressure as part of a balanced diet, while pistachios offer potassium, magnesium and healthy fat to support heart health and blood vessel function.
Why hypertension matters
High blood pressure is common, particularly in older adults, and often has no symptoms, meaning many people do not realise they have it until it causes other health issues. Symptoms can include headaches, blurred vision and chest pain.
The snack is not suitable for anyone allergic to the ingredients, and a varied diet is still needed to get all necessary nutrients. Other dietitian-recommended snacks are available on the Verywell Health website.
Lifestyle changes that can help manage the condition include losing weight if overweight, exercising regularly, eating a healthy balanced diet, cutting out smoking, and reducing alcohol and salt intake. GPs may also prescribe medication depending on medical circumstances.
