Dietitians Back 1 Banana a Day to Lower Blood Pressure in 120 Million U.S. Adults
Updated
Updated · AOL · Aug 25
Dietitians Back 1 Banana a Day to Lower Blood Pressure in 120 Million U.S. Adults
3 articles · Updated · AOL · Aug 25
Summary
Four registered dietitians said bananas are the top fruit for blood pressure management, recommending about one medium banana daily as part of a balanced diet.
A medium banana delivers 422 milligrams of potassium, which helps kidneys flush excess sodium and relaxes blood vessels; experts said a higher intake could slightly lower blood pressure within about a month.
Bananas may also support longer-term heart health through magnesium, fiber, antioxidants and hydration, and can improve diet quality when they replace salty snacks or sweets.
People with kidney disease or kidney failure may need to limit potassium, while those with diabetes or pre-diabetes should favor whole fruit over juice and watch portions to avoid blood sugar spikes.
The advice targets a broad U.S. problem: nearly 120 million adults have hypertension, and dietitians stressed bananas work best alongside other potassium-rich foods and an overall healthy eating pattern.