Fight Headaches, Blood & Heart Problems with Proper Diet

Drugs are the common method for treating problems such as headaches and high blood pressure. But dietary changes offer another approach, says health expert Anne McIntyre.

For headaches, she says, you might find that herbal teas can do the job instead. Basil and lemon balm, "reminders of summer sea and sun," have a calming effect, which McIntyre calls "the perfect remedy for stress-related symptoms, including headaches and migraines."

High blood pressure also can yield to the influence of what we eat, she says. The garlic and olive oil that are used in some foods "have been shown to significantly lower blood pressure," she said.

These two reduce cholesterol, "open" the arteries and help cut the risk of heart attacks and strokes, McIntyre says. Basil can reduce stress, she adds, and the antioxidant vitamins in peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers provide the heart and arteries with even more protection.

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