If you eat a variety of heart-healthy breakfast foods, you’re likely starting your day off right when it comes to blood pressure management. But if you always eat a certain “healthy” breakfast staple, you may be working against your goals.
Nearly half of American adults deal with high blood pressure—many of whom don't even know it—making this a condition to at least be aware of. That said, you can think you’re doing everything right in terms of a blood pressure-friendly diet and still be accidentally raising your blood pressure.
It’s granola. “Many granolas, especially processed granolas such as granola bars, can be high in components that are less ‘healthy’ for the heart,” Dr. Chen says.
Related: ‘I’m a Hepatologist—This Is the First Thing I’d Cut From My Diet To Protect My Liver’Most granolas also have high levels of added sugar, points out Dr. Mary Mosquera Cochran, RD, a dietitian at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. “Many brands can have 10 grams or more of added sugar per 1/2 cup serving, which could add up to closer to 20 to 30 grams in a larger serving if you aren't paying attention,” she says.
Too much sugar can also encourage inflammation in the body and impact the blood vessels, making it harder for them to expand and relax, Dr. Cochran says—that can raise blood pressure over time.
Related: Here’s How Eating Salmon Actually Impacts Your Heart, According to Cardiologists
How to Enjoy Granola When You Have High Blood Pressure
“Try using half the amount of granola you normally use, and replace it with fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds,” Dr. Cochran says. She also suggests using granola more as a topping for other heart-healthy foods like unsweetened yogurt or chia seed pudding vs the main component of your meal.
You may want to consider making your own granola at home, per Dr. Balantekin. “There are many benefits to making your own granola, such as being able to control the ingredients and reducing the sodium, sugar and fat content,” she says.
There is no single diet that will lower blood pressure, but healthcare providers generally recommend watching your sodium intake. The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests having no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day. (In a perfect world, the AHA says you’d limit yourself to no more than 1,500 milligrams of sodium daily.)
If you’re concerned about your blood pressure, talk to your healthcare provider. They should be able to give you an evaluation and recommend next steps for managing your blood pressure in the future.
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Sources:
High Blood Pressure Facts, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, January 28, 2025High Blood Pressure Risk Factors, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, December 13, 2024Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, MD, interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CADr. Katherine N. Balantekin, PhD, RD, assistant professor in the Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences at University at BuffaloDr. Mary Mosquera Cochran, RD, a dietitian at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterShaking the Salt Habit to Lower High Blood Pressure, American Heart Association, August 14, 2025Managing Blood Pressure with a Heart-Healthy Diet, American Heart Association, May 22, 2024Hence then, the article about the healthy breakfast staple that s silently raising your blood pressure according to cardiologists was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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