'I'm a doctor - an easy seasoning hack can help you lower your blood pressure by controlling salt levels'

The World Health Organization (WHO) warned that uncontrolled hypertension can cause complications including "serious damage to the heart".

Excessive pressure can harden arteries, decreasing the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, which can cause a number of issues including chest pain, also called angina; heart attack; heart failure; and an irregular heartbeat which can lead to sudden death.

WHO continued: "Hypertension can also burst or block arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the brain, causing a stroke. In addition, hypertension can cause kidney damage, leading to kidney failure."

GB News spoke exclusively to professor of medicine Dr Alan Rozansk (MD) about his top tips for those at risk for hypertension. He stressed the importance of limiting "excessive sodium intake".

The expert said: "There is some debate as to the ideal amount of sodium to consume in one's diet, but most health organisations agree that excessive sodium intake (well above 2,300 mg/day - which equals 2.3 grams) raises the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.

"To reduce sodium intake, limit highly processed foods, canned soups and hidden sources of salt like in pizza."

Sodium chloride is also known as table salt. The expert said: "Cooking at home helps you control salt levels, and using herbs, spices, lemons and other citrus is a great way to season food without relying on salt."

The British Heart Foundation advised: "Adults should eat less than six grams of salt per day. This is the daily intake of salt recommended by the UK Government. Six grams of salt is about one level teaspoon.

"Some food labels call salt, sodium instead. Salt and sodium are measured differently. Adults should have less than 2.5 grams of sodium per day."

Dr Rozansk also stressed the importance of enjoying a diet that prioritises whole foods over processed.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• How to sleep better: Britons told 7 foods to help 'curb hunger and support restful sleep'
• Over 65s told part of the body that is the 'organ of longevity' - the food you need to look after it
• Doctor names ‘number one food' to prevent Osteoporosis and reverse condition

He advised: "Limit the intake of highly processed foods, which can raise LDL cholesterol in multiple ways. These foods are often high in saturated fats and added sugars, leading to harmful changes in cholesterol levels.

"They are also low in fibre - which helps remove cholesterol - and lack essential nutrients like the antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, nuts and grains that support overall health.

"Specifically, it’s important to limit or avoid fried foods like French fries and onion rings, processed meats such as bacon, sausage, hot dogs and salami, as well as commercial baked goods like cookies, cakes, pastries and doughnuts."

If you are concerned about your blood pressure or any other aspects of your health, it is important to speak to your GP.