Foods to Avoid If You Have High Blood Pressure

Lisette Marie

51. Baking Mixes – A Sugar and Salt Double Punch

Hands of african american boy baking, mixing dough. Photo Credit: Envato @Wavebreakmedia

Store-bought baking mixes for muffins, cakes, pancakes, or biscuits often contain a stealthy mix of refined flour, sugar, and—you guessed it—sodium. Some contain over 300 mg of sodium per serving, plus trans fats and artificial flavorings. Even if you think you’re having a “light” treat, these mixes can silently raise your blood pressure over time. Smart swap: Bake from scratch using whole-grain flour, mashed bananas, applesauce, or unsweetened nut milk to control both sugar and salt content. Bonus: homemade recipes often taste better and give you more fiber and nutrients per bite.

52. Meat Substitutes – Plant-Based, But Not Always Heart-Healthy

Process of roasting veggie plant-based meat cutlet on barbecue grill plate. Soybean fake patty. Photo Credit: Envato @Kohanova

Not all plant-based meats are good for your heart. Many popular veggie burgers, sausages, and “chicken” strips are highly processed and loaded with sodium to mimic the taste and texture of real meat. Some brands pack over 600 mg of sodium per patty. Smart swap: Choose minimally processed alternatives made from beans, lentils, or tofu with whole ingredients you recognize. Or make your own patties using chickpeas, brown rice, and herbs. You’ll avoid the sodium overload while getting real plant-powered nutrition.

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51. Baking Mixes – A Sugar and Salt Double Punch

52. Meat Substitutes – Plant-Based, But Not Always Heart-Healthy

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