Iron is LIKELY SAFE for most people when it is taken by mouth in appropriate amounts. However, it can cause side effects including stomach upset and pain, constipation or diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Taking iron supplements with food seems to reduce some of these side effects. However, food can also reduce how well the body absorbed iron.
Oatmeal is a great breakfast choice if you have high blood pressure, but oat bran can provide even more health benefits, since itâs higher in fiber, which helps to lower blood pressure and improves digestive health. This low-sodium food can be prepared as a hot cereal and topped with fruit or used in pancakes.
1. Maintain a balanced diet. A diet composed of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy can lower your blood pressure by as much as 14 mm Hg, especially when that diet also contains minimal amounts of saturated fats and cholesterol. 1  Dietary changes are usually the first step in dropping your blood pressure. Scientists generally agree that potassium is a vital addition to any diet designed to lower blood pressure. 2  Good sources of potassium include peas, bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, orange juice, kidney beans, cantaloupe, honeydew melons, and raisins.