Many individuals with low blood pressure believe that consuming goat meat can help elevate their blood pressure levels. But is that really the case? Let’s explore the facts in the following discussion.
Understanding Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, occurs when blood pressure falls significantly below the normal range. Typically, normal blood pressure is between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg.
There are various factors that can contribute to low blood pressure, including:
- Pregnancy
- Deficiency in essential nutrients
- Conditions affecting the heart and its valves
- Disorders related to hormonal balance
- Blood loss
- Sudden shifts in body position, such as moving from a lying position to standing or prolonged standing
- Nerve complications due to diabetes
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Lack of adequate fluids in the body (dehydration)
- Heart failure
- Use of certain medications, including those for anxiety, depression, diuretics, cardiovascular conditions, pain management, and anesthesia
- Severe infections (septicemia)
- Intense allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
When blood pressure drops too low, vital organs such as the heart, brain, and other body parts may not receive sufficient blood supply. Individuals with hypotension often experience symptoms such as:
- Blurred vision
- Mental confusion
- Feeling dizzy
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent drowsiness
- General body weakness
- Episodes of fainting
Can Eating Goat Meat Help Raise Blood Pressure?
Goat meat is a source of animal protein that contains heme iron, which the body can easily absorb. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, selenium, zinc, niacin, and phosphorus.
However, eating goat meat alone does not cause a significant increase in low blood pressure. Various factors, including dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, iron deficiency, hormonal imbalances, or cardiovascular issues, can contribute to hypotension.
According to Ginger Hultin, MS, RDN, a representative of the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, consuming a portion of goat meat will not instantly elevate blood pressure. However, an overall diet that includes meat may have an influence on blood pressure levels over time.
How to Manage Low Blood Pressure?
Since hypotension can result from multiple causes, the first step is to consult a doctor. A medical professional may suggest undergoing several tests to determine the underlying reason for low blood pressure.
Through these tests, doctors can recommend suitable treatments and necessary lifestyle changes. In addition to medication, individuals may need to increase water intake, be mindful of body position changes, reduce excessive carbohydrate consumption, and engage in daily physical activity.
For additional medical guidance, you can consult a doctor via the Ai Care application, available for download on the Play Store or App Store on your smartphone.
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- dr Hanifa Rahma
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