One of the most comforting and heart-healthy winter foods, experts say, is tomato soup
Digital Desk: As winter sets in, health experts warn of a rise in blood pressure levels, increasing the risk of heart disease. According to medical professionals, this seasonal spike can be managed—and even reversed—with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindful food choices.
One of the most comforting and heart-healthy winter foods, experts say, is tomato soup. Rich in essential nutrients such as potassium, lycopene, and vitamin C, tomato soup helps regulate blood pressure and supports overall cardiovascular health.
Doctors explain that potassium plays a key role in counteracting the effects of sodium by relaxing blood vessel walls and promoting the excretion of excess sodium through urine. Adequate potassium intake; recommended at 3,500 to 5,000 mg per day, also helps prevent arterial stiffness and reduces cardiovascular strain. Tomatoes are a natural source of this vital mineral.
Tomatoes are also high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect nitric oxide from damage by free radicals, enabling blood vessels to relax and assisting the kidneys in eliminating excess sodium.
However, experts caution against consuming regular canned tomato soup, as it is often high in sodium, which can raise blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily sodium intake to no more than 2,300 mg, with an ideal target of 1,500 mg per day. Consumers are advised to choose “low-sodium,” “reduced-sodium,” or “no-salt-added” versions and carefully read nutrition labels.
To better control sodium intake, health experts recommend preparing tomato soup at home using fresh ingredients. A heart-healthy recipe includes ripe tomatoes, low-sodium broth, olive oil, garlic, onions, and herbs for flavour instead of excess salt or cream.
Doctors and health experts have emphasize that incorporating nutrient-rich foods like tomato soup into a winter diet, along with regular physical activity, can play a significant role in controlling blood pressure and protecting heart health during the colder months.
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