High blood pressure affects more than 25 per cent of all adults in the UK.
The risk of developing the condition, which is also known as hypertension, increases as you get older, or if you’re overweight.
But making some small dietary changes could help to lower the risk of high blood pressure symptoms.
Eating more garlic could help to reduce your blood pressure reading, according to Nuffield Health’s Nutritional Therapist, Mary Cotter.
Garlic contains natural antibiotics that help to lower hypertension risk, she said.
“Smelly breath may be worth your while if blood pressure is a concern for you,” said Cotter.
“Garlic contains allicin, a natural antibiotic, and is linked to dramatic blood pressure improvements.
“It needs to be raw and plentiful, so think about adding it to an olive oil and lemon juice salad dressing or stir it in at the end of cooking.”
Eating more garlic could blood pressure by 12/9mmHg, scientists have claimed.
About 200mg of garlic powder, three times day, is all that’s needed to lower hypertension risk, added the NHS.
Dietitian Alison Hornby added: “Garlic is a delicious flavour used widely in Mediterranean and Asian cooking.
“Studies using high concentrations of garlic extracts have been associated with improved blood circulation, healthier cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure, all of which reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
“However, current evidence does not support the use of garlic supplements to improve health.”
Adding pomegranate to your diet could also help to ward off high blood pressure, said Cotter.
The fruit disrupts plaque formation in the arteries, and generally improves cardiovascular health, she said.
Having high blood pressure puts extra stress on blood vessels and vital organs.
It raises the risk of some deadly conditions, including heart disease and strokes.
The only way of knowing if you’re at risk of hypertension is to have your blood pressure checked.
Check your blood pressure at a doctor’s surgery, or by some pharmacists.
All adults over 40 years old should check their blood pressure at least every five years.
