Green Tea: The Elixir of Antioxidants
Known for its myriad health benefits, green tea is an incredible elixir for maintaining good cardiovascular health. Packed with antioxidants called catechins, green tea helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels, promoting healthy blood flow and regulating blood pressure. Additionally, green tea contains theanine, an amino acid known for its calming properties, which can also help lower blood pressure. Findings from a study published in the National Institute of Health website show that L-theanine reduces blood pressure in the stress response and also reduces anxiety (3.). I believe this finding exemplifies the strong relationship between anxiety and blood pressure levels.
Brewing Tip: Steep a teaspoon of green tea leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds, let it steep for 2 minutes to extract the perfect balance of flavors. Sip and enjoy the subtle grassy notes on ice or hot. I also love adding mint to my prepared green tea!
Recommended cups per day: 5-8
Hibiscus Tea: The Vibrant Blood Pressure Regulator
With its striking color and tangy flavor, hibiscus tea offers a refreshing way to manage blood pressure. Hibiscus flowers contain anthocyanins, which act as natural ACE inhibitors, helping to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Several studies have shown that regularly consuming hibiscus tea can lead to significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
In a randomized and controlled clinical trial it was shown that 1 cup of Hibiscus sabdariffa (hibiscus tea) was just as effective as the blood pressure medication catopril 50 mg/day lowering systolic blood pressure by 7 points! (4.)
Brewing Tip: Bring water to a boil, then add dried hibiscus flowers and steep for 5-10 minutes. I love drinking it over ice and adding berries to it.
Recommended cups per day: 3-4
Incorporating ginger tea, green tea, and hibiscus tea into your daily routine is not only a pleasurable experience but also a proactive step toward maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Ginger tea's spiciness, green tea's antioxidants, and hibiscus tea's vibrant charm all work synergistically to support cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure naturally.
Remember, while these teas can be beneficial, it's essential to adopt a holistic approach to managing blood pressure, and that’s what I teach in my
Lowering Blood Pressure 30-Day Challenge. I have helped hundreds of women lower their blood pressure, get off medications, and most importantly continue to maintain a healthy blood pressure through individualized protocols that fit each woman's unique health history.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and accountability with a health coach professional are vital components of a healthy lifestyle. So, brew a cup of your favorite tea, relax, and savor the journey to a healthier you—one sip at a time!
references:
(1.) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28336112/
(2.) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15613983/
(3.) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3518171/
(4.) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15330492/