What should a person with high blood pressure avoid?

A person with high blood pressure should primarily avoid salt due to its effect on the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure. When salt, which contains sodium, is consumed in excess, it can cause the body to retain water. This additional fluid increases the volume of blood in the bloodstream, leading to higher blood pressure. Managing sodium intake is a crucial aspect of controlling hypertension, and many health guidelines recommend limiting salt consumption as part of a comprehensive strategy to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

While sugar, carbohydrates, and cholesterol can also influence overall health, particularly in the context of weight management and cardiovascular risk, they do not have the same immediate and pronounced effect on blood pressure as sodium does. Therefore, focusing on reducing salt intake is considered one of the most effective dietary modifications for individuals with high blood pressure.