The symptoms of high blood pressure are rarely noticeable, but when signs do show, they may include chest pain and difficulty breathing. Simple changes to your diet are recommended for lowering your reading, such as cutting your salt intake, and some health experts believe particular foods on their own can have a big impact.
But a significant majority of people with high blood pressure don’t have any symptoms, according to Bupa. High blood pressure also known as hypertension, is common and affects more than one in four adults in the UK.
In rare circumstances when people do experience symptoms, they may have a headache, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, heart palpitations and nose bleed.
Losing excess weight, eating less salt, sugar and saturated fat, and doing more activity are the recommended forms of treatment the health organisation recommends.
But eating a handful of chia seeds a day could help lower your reading.
She writes: Chia seed fibre, omega-3, and antioxidant polyphenols have beneficial effects on the liver and circulation that can lower blood pressure.On her website, , Dr Sarah Brewer explained chia seeds are a rich source of protein, omega-3s, fibre, minerals and powerful antioxidant polyphenols, all of which have beneficial effects on blood pressure.
You can find chia seeds in our store here
“ALA (alpha-loneleic acid) is down to block the formation of substances (oxylipins) that cause blood pressure to rise.
“Chia seeds also contain fibre, lignin’s, antioxidants, magnesium, calcium and potassium which together have an even more powerful effect against high blood pressure.”
In a study, 26 volunteers were recruited, all of whom had hypertension. Only 17 were receiving antihypertensive medication, the remaining seven had untreated high blood pressure.
Dr Brewer added: “Volunteers were randomised to take either 35g chia flour per day, or a placebo, for 12 weeks.
“Those taking placebo had no changes in their blood pressure readings.
“In those taking chia four, there were significant reductions in blood pressure readings.”
So how can you incorporate chia seeds into your diet?
You can also add this to smoothies or use it in gluten-free pancakes or muffins. Chia seeds can be ground in a coffee grinder to produce chai flour that you can sprinkle over foods, advises Dr Brewer.
Do chia seeds have any side effects?
Dr Brewer answered: “Because of their high fibre content, eating too many chai seeds can lead to bloating and abdominal pain from trapped wind.
“Eat chia seeds in moderation, and always drink sufficient fluids to help them swell.”
You can order organic chia seeds online here