Cut back on two types of fish to 'reduce high blood pressure'

Fish is often celebrated for its omega-3 fatty acids and health benefits, but it has also been linked to increased blood pressure risks. A claim by a pharmacist suggested that certain types of fish might exacerbate hypertension, a precursor to severe health issues like heart attacks and strokes.

Abbas Kanani, from the Chemist Click Online Pharmacy, warned that eating dried and smoked fish could hinder the control of healthy blood pressure levels. Those with hypertension are advised to rethink their intake of these fish varieties. Despite being rich in protein and nutrients, dried and smoked fish can trigger blood pressure surges due to high sodium content.

Abbas said: "People with high blood pressure should limit the amount they eat because of the high sodium content. Eating too much salt can lead to increased blood pressure.

"The body holds onto water when we eat salt. When we overeat, the additional water in your blood causes extra strain on the walls of blood vessels, raising blood pressure."

Blood Pressure UK identified excessive salt consumption as the "single biggest cause" of rising blood pressure.

For better salt regulation, the charity has advised checking food labels and avoiding high-salt products, especially those with 1.5g or more per 100g, reports Surrey Live.

However, Blood Pressure UK also issued a warning that dried fish is "particularly high in salt", suggesting it's wise to "try to avoid" this option or choose a lower-salt variant.

Smoked fish also contains significant salt levels, with half a packet typically comprising about 1.5g, equating to a quarter of the maximum daily intake recommended for an adult, pointed out Sheena Bhageerutty, assistant nutritionist at the charity Consensus Action on Salt, Sugar and Health.

She also advised reducing consumption of high-salt foods where feasible and opting for alternatives with less salt, such as canned or fresh fish, which offer the benefits of being lower in salt while still providing ample protein and omega-3.

Jenny Shea Rawn, a registered dietitian based in the US, recommended enjoying cured and smoked foods on occasion and pairing them with lower sodium and whole foods.

She told EatingWell magazine: "The key to getting the most enjoyment and health benefits from seafood is to choose a variety of seafood options throughout the week-fresh, frozen, canned and smoked."

This method was also advised by Sarah Pflugradt, another US-based dietitian and nutrition educator, to avoid the likes of ultra-processed foods if you're watching your sodium levels.