Doctor names 'number one superfood in the world' that lowers high blood pressure
Dr Eric Berg DC, a keto and intermittent fasting specialist, has named what he calls the 'number one superfood in the world' due to its 'amazing health benefits'. In a video on his YouTube channel, which boasts 12 million subscribers, Dr Berg explained: "Some people think green powder is the best superfood.
"But, while it's very beneficial, it's missing one important ingredient - protein. Green powder has vitamin C, K1, beta-carotene, magnesium, potassium and phytonutrients - but no protein.
"To optimise your health, you might want to start consuming grass-fed red meat along with your green powder." Instead, the expert said he considers red meat the ultimate superfood.
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He praised its rich content of B vitamins, fat-soluble vitamins, iron, selenium, zinc, and DHA. As the Mirror reports, he detailed how protein is essential for immune cells, adding that protein triggers glucagon, which he said 'stabilises your blood sugar and helps counter the effects of insulin.'
"Red meat contains taurine, an amino acid needed to help prevent high blood pressure, and leucine, an amino acid that triggers the synthesis of muscle," he continued. However, anyone getting treatment for their blood sugar or high blood pressure levels should adhere to their GP's advice.
Symptoms usually don't occur until high blood pressure has reached a severe or life-threatening stage. The best way to know if you have high blood pressure is to check your blood pressure. Meanwhile, early signs of high blood sugar can include:
Frequent urination
Increased thirst
Blurred vision
Feeling weak or unusually tired
Headache
Trouble concentrating
Weight loss
The British Heart Foundation also recommends a protein-rich diet for those with high blood pressure and high blood sugar levels. Lean proteins, like chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and beans, are lower in calories than fattier sources and can help you manage your weight.
A study also found an increase in dietary protein may help improve the blood glucose response in people with type 2 diabetes. As protein slows down the release of sugars into the bloodstream, this can help prevent blood sugar spikes.
The NHS advises moderation when enjoying red meat and processed meat due to associated health risks. The NHS website explains: "If you currently eat more than 90g (cooked weight) of red or processed meat a day, it is recommended that you cut down to 70g.
"Red meat includes beef, lamb, mutton, pork, veal, venison and goat. Processed meat is any meat that has been preserved by smoking, curing, salting or adding preservatives."
The NHS adds that if you consume more than 90g of red meat in one day, you can balance out your intake by eating less on subsequent days to maintain an average daily intake of no more than 70g. According to the experts, choosing leaner cuts of meat is also beneficial.
Other good sources of protein include:
Milk and dairy foods
Beans
Pulses
Fish
Eggs
When incorporating milk and dairy into your diet, low sugar and low fat options are recommended. While the NHS encourages consuming at least two portions of fish per week, be mindful that smoked and canned varieties may contain high levels of salt.