Why are fried foods a health hazard?

World Hypertension Day 2024: World Hypertension Day which is celebrated across the country on 17th May. On this occasion, Dr. Hemant Narayan Ray, HOD of Cardiology of RIMS, told what is high blood pressure and how it can be avoided.

This disease is very common in India, almost every third person suffers from it. In such a situation, it is very important to maintain a healthy weight and remain active, but eating habits also play an important role in controlling this disease. Especially in India, where delicious but often fried foods are consumed, it becomes very important to understand the relationship between fitness, fried foods and blood pressure.

Why are fried foods a health hazard?

If you eat fried foods regularly, it can increase your blood pressure significantly. Let us know why:

1. High amounts of saturated and trans fats: Fried foods are often cooked in oils that contain high amounts of saturated and trans fats. These fats increase LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in the blood, which leads to plaque accumulation.

2. Too much sodium: Many fried foods contain a lot of salt, which increases the amount of sodium in the body. A diet high in sodium and low in potassium causes blood vessels to stiffen, increasing the risk of high blood pressure.

3. Low Nutrition: Eating fried food destroys essential nutrients. Fried foods often lack fiber, essential vitamins and minerals, which are essential for the overall health of the body and proper functioning of the heart.

Control blood pressure through fitness and diet.

You can reduce high blood pressure by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Two things are important in a healthy lifestyle – fitness and a balanced diet, which should not contain too much fried food.

Health:

Daily exercise: Doing 90 to 150 minutes of aerobic exercise a week helps lower blood pressure. Aerobic exercises are those that keep you breathing, such as brisk walking, running or swimming.

Exercise reduces weight, improves blood flow and makes the heart stronger and able to pump blood better.

control blood pressure

Eat less fried things: Eat fried things as little as possible. Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. This reduces the amount of saturated and trans fats, which increase blood pressure.

Choose healthy proteins: Instead of processed meats found in fried foods, it may be beneficial to eat healthy protein items like fish, lentils and chicken breast.

Eat less salt: Reduce salt intake. Try to consume less than 1500 mg of sodium a day. You can take potassium rich diet.

Measures to control blood pressure:

1. Read the information written on the food packet: While buying canned or packaged food, definitely check the amount of salt and fat written on it.

2. Cook food at home: With this, you can control both what you are putting in your food and how much quantity you are eating.

3. Choose healthy options: There are many delicious and healthy alternatives to fried foods. Try to consume these.