Could Your Everyday Eating Habits Be Raising Your Blood Pressure? Nutritionist Avni Kaul Explains

India, July 3rd , 2025: Hypertension or high blood pressure is a significant health concern in India, affecting more than 22% of adults in the country. For many, this condition can come as a sudden diagnosis. However, hypertension is a condition that often builds up silently, as a result of small, daily food and lifestyle choices that we usually think are insignificant.

The extra helping of pickles, that packet of chips, the salt-laden snacks, all of these add up in India’s spice and fat-rich diet.

“Most people don’t realise how small daily choices, like that extra papad or processed snack, can silently push your blood pressure up,” says Avni Kaul, Clinical Nutritionist and Founder of Nutri Activania.

The Hidden Diet Triggers Behind High Blood Pressure

Hypertension can be of two types —  primary hypertension that makes up more than 90-95% of the cases and develops gradually over the years as a result of genetics, lifestyle, and aging. While secondary hypertension that only consists of  5-10%  of  the cases, are caused by  conditions like kidney disease, sleep apnea, or hormonal disorders.
Genetics plays a significant role in the development of hypertension, also known as high
blood pressure, but stress and daily eating habits become the deciding factor for rising blood pressure.

Excess salt intake, including both visible salt and hidden sodium in packaged foods, sauces, and condiments, gradually elevates blood pressure over time.

“It’s not always the salt you sprinkle,  it’s also the hidden sodium that adds up,” warns Avni. She explains, “Eating fewer fruits and vegetables, snacking on processed food, and overconsumption of alcohol make matters worse. Even deficiencies in key minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium can tip the scale.”

Smart Dietary Shifts That Support Healthy Blood Pressure

The good news? High blood pressure is one of the most manageable lifestyle conditions, provided you know where to start.

At Nutri Activania, Avni and her team encourage realistic and evidence-based changes rooted in the globally recommended DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) — an approach proven to reduce blood pressure.

“You don’t have to give up flavour — you just need to upgrade your choices,” shares Avni.

The focus is simple:

1. Increase fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains

2. Limit sodium to 1500–2000 mg/day

3. Include potassium-rich foods like bananas, greens, and dals

4. Moderate alcohol

5. Make physical activity a part of your daily routine

“Even small dietary shifts can lower your blood pressure in just a few months, especially when combined with physical activity,” adds Avni.

Personalised Guidance Makes the Difference

At Nutri Activania, every client receives a personalized plan tailored to their food habits, preferences, and routine.
“We personalise your plan to fit your routine and food preferences, because health advice only works when it works for your life,” says Avni.

With the proper guidance, managing high blood pressure becomes less about restriction and more about empowerment.

Ready to take the first step? Reliable, practical nutrition advice is just a conversation away. Visit: http://www.nutriactivania.com/