The keto diet might help in this respect, according to cardiologist Jennifer Haythe, MD, codirector of the Women's Centre for Cardiovascular Health at Columbia. "A 2010 study in The Archives of Internal Medicine found that patients on a low-carbohydrate (keto) diet showed a statistically significant reduction in blood pressure," Dr. Haythe said.
Why does this happen? "It has been postulated that by acting similarly to a diuretic, the keto diet reduces total body water, particularly at the beginning," she explained. "In addition, lower serum insulin levels seen on the keto diet may lead to less sodium retention and more vascular muscle relaxation, resulting in lower blood pressure."
Still, if you want to lower your blood pressure, Dr. Haythe suggests trying the DASH diet instead, which can help you cut back on your sodium intake.