Hypertension is a common cardiovascular disease that seriously threatens the patient’s life and health. For patients with hypertension, long-term use of antihypertensive drugs is key to controlling blood pressure. However, if not paying attention to the intake of certain foods while taking antihypertensive drugs, it may impact the effectiveness of the medication and even lead to adverse reactions. Here are six types of foods to avoid when taking antihypertensive drugs.
Grapefruit is a nutrient-rich fruit containing abundant nutrients such as vitamin C and flavonoids. However, the furanocoumarins in grapefruit can inhibit the activity of liver CYP3A4 enzymes, which may alter the blood drug concentration and effectiveness. Therefore, when taking antihypertensive drugs, it is advisable to avoid consuming grapefruit, especially grapefruit juice and grape juice.
Salt is a seasoning and essential nutrient for the human body. However, excessive salt intake can lead to high blood pressure, affecting the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs. It is recommended that adults limit their daily salt intake to six grams or less, with hypertensive patients stricter at five grams or less. When consuming food, pay attention to the salt content and choose low-salt foods whenever possible.
High-cholesterol foods include pig liver, animal offal, egg yolk, etc. Prolonged intake of high-cholesterol foods increases the body’s cholesterol levels, raising the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Avoid consuming foods containing tyramine, such as pig liver and tofu, during antihypertensive drug treatment as these foods can weaken the drug’s antihypertensive effects.
High-sugar foods include candies, desserts, beverages, etc. Long-term consumption of high-sugar foods can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other diseases. When taking antihypertensive drugs, reduce the intake of high-sugar foods as much as possible to prevent adverse effects on blood pressure due to fluctuating blood sugar levels.
Alcoholic beverages include beer, spirits, wine, etc. Avoid alcohol and alcoholic beverages during antihypertensive drug treatment to prevent excessive blood pressure lowering or shock. Alcohol dilates blood vessels, reduces blood pressure, thereby affecting the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs.
Milk is a nutrient-rich beverage containing abundant nutrients like protein, calcium, etc. However, milk’s tyramine content can affect the efficacy of antihypertensive drugs, especially for patients taking diuretic antihypertensive medications. Thus, when taking antihypertensive drugs, it is best to avoid drinking milk or opt for low-tyramine milk.
