4. Bananas
We’ve all heard the rhyme an apple a day keeps doctor away, but eating a banana a day can keep stroke at bay. We all know that bananas are high in potassium and, as a matter of fact this essential mineral can actually lower blood pressure, even in people with hypertension. One study found that eating more potassium was connected to a 24 percent lower risk of stroke.
The recommended amount of potassium is 4,700 milligrams a day—one medium-sized banana packs in 422 milligrams. Green bananas in particular can help minimize blood pressure, says Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDE, CDN, Preventive Cardiology Specialist.
“Green unripe bananas contain resistant starch, which…improves insulin sensitivity,” she says. “Insulin sensitivity improves blood sugar control, which can help assist with optimizing blood flow and reducing blood pressure.” When buying bananas, Routhenstein recommends choosing the ones that are greener in color.
