3 Bad-News Foods for Blood Pressure

Whether you have high blood pressure or want to avoid getting it, cut back on these types of foods to make your heart happier.

If it's full of saturated fat take a step back. Eat less butter, whole cheese, regular salad dressing, fried goodies, and fatty meat.

Also steer clear of foods with artificial trans fat. This lab-made flavor booster is bad for your heart. Check the label for word like hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated.

Next, avoid sodium overload. There can be lots of it hiding in foods that may not taste super salty, such as bread, cake, and canned veggies.

Watch out for the usual sodium suspects too, like pizza, soup, cold cuts, and fast food.

Finally, sip smartly if you drink alcohol. Limit yourself to one drink a day if you're a woman and two if you're a man.

To take the next step toward better blood pressure, fill up on whole grains, fruits, veggies and lean protein.