Fructose -- The Hidden Cause of High Blood Pressure?

Do you suffer from high blood pressure? If so, odds are you also eat a diet high in fructose. Scientists have discovered that people who eat a diet high in fructose increase their risk of having elevated blood pressure. Learn what foods put you at risk and are endangering your health.

What is fructose?

Fructose is a simple sugar found in honey, tree fruits, berries, melons and some vegetables. However, fructose in its natural state isn't the problem. The problem is from added sugar found in much of our food, beverages, and snacks in the form of high fructose corn syrup.

High blood pressure is a chronic condition in developed countries. With the hope of ending this dangerous health condition, scientists are studying the eating habits of people in these countries to determine the cause. According to scientists, one cause may very well be the high amount of fructose consumed each year.

Test results are in

In a study (1) conducted by the University of Colorado Denver Health Services Center, 4,528 participants, 18 years and older, answered questions about the foods and beverages they eat and drink. The scientist discovered that participants who drank 2 1/2 sugary soft drinks per day had a 26% to 77% higher risk of high blood pressure.

Scientists believe these test results suggest that eating and drinking foods high in fructose definitely links to high blood pressure.

Take action and lower your blood pressure

If these scientists are correct, lower your blood pressure simply by cutting back or eliminating high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) from your diet. To do this, you need to understand what foods contain HFCS. Unfortunately, virtually every processed and pre-packaged food contains HFCS. And according to the USDA high fructose corn syrup is the number one source of calories for Americans.

To lower your blood pressure by eating less HFCS, begin eating unprocessed foods. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables and eliminate soft drinks from your diet -- easier said than done. But it can be done.

Try using new recipes containing fresh fruits and vegetables. Cut back on eating out and eating fast food. Try simple recipes with fresh, wholesome ingredients and gradually cut back on the amount of soft drinks you drink. Not only will you see improvement and possibly have normal blood pressure once again, you'll also see an improvement in your overall health.

(1) Study performed by University of Colorado Denver Health Services Center