Cut down on fructose

5 ways to reduce your risk of high blood pressure

High blood pressure can put you at risk for serious health complications down the road. Here are five ways to keep it under control

By Lisa Bendall

PreviousSlide 4 of 7Next

2. Cut down on fructose

Researchers are finding more links between what you eat and how your blood pressure behaves.  A recent University of Colorado study showed that adults with no prior history of high blood pressure, but who consumed more than 74 grams of fructose a day (about the amount in two-and-a-half cans of pop) were more likely to develop hypertension.

Fructose is used to sweeten a wide range of processed foods, baked goods and candy. So pay attention to your food labels; avoiding or limiting foods that contain fructose may help guard against high blood pressure.