With the number of people suffering high blood pressure all over the world increasing, researchers have found a new way to deal with the condition. A study has revealed that fruits and vegetables can be reliable allies of affected patients.

In the study conducted by the researchers from the University of Southern California, it was discovered that food rich in potassium, especially fruits and vegetables, can help lower blood pressure.

Alicia A. McDonough, one of the researchers, highlighted the link between the increased intake of potassium and one's blood pressure.

"Decreasing sodium intake is a well-established way to lower blood pressure," McDonough said, "but evidence suggests that increasing dietary potassium may have an equally important effect on hypertension."

Based on the result of the study, the increased intake of potassium helps the kidneys to excrete a larger volume of water and salt. This will then lower the patient's blood pressure.

It is recommended that to improve blood pressure, an adult must consume not less than 4.7 grams of potassium daily. This can be derived from eating one and a half cups of black beans, a big portion of spinach, bananas, prunes, raisins, and yogurt.

In the study published in the American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, McDonough pointed out that "If you eat a typical Western diet, your sodium intake is high and your potassium intake is low. This significantly increases your chances of developing high blood pressure." 

Following this finding, it has been suggested that policies encouraging the public to increase their potassium intake must be crafted. It is worth noting that between 2009 and 2010, the average daily potassium consumption of Americans, two years and older, was pegged at only 2.6 grams.