"Healthy" Habits Quietly Skyrocketing Your Blood Pressure
27. "Clean Eating" Extremes Leading to Nutrient Gaps

An obsessive focus on "clean" eating that eliminates entire food groups (like dairy or certain grains) without careful substitution can lead to deficiencies in key minerals crucial for blood pressure regulation, such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These minerals work together to balance fluids and relax blood vessels. Ensuring a varied diet rich in diverse whole foods is vital to avoid inadvertently creating nutrient gaps that harm cardiovascular health.
28. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Without Proper Foundation

HIIT is effective for fitness, but its rapid bursts of maximum effort cause significant, sharp increases in heart rate and blood pressure during the intervals. For individuals who are deconditioned, have underlying heart issues, or don't incorporate adequate warm-ups/cool-downs, this intense cardiovascular stress can be risky. Building a solid fitness base and listening to one's body is crucial before jumping into high-intensity routines.