A study published in the British Medical Journal has concluded that increased potassium intake reduces blood pressure in people with hypertension and that it had no adverse effect on cholesterol levels or kidney function.
Foods that have high levels of potassium include white beans, dark green leafy vegetables, potatoes, dried apricots, yoghurt, salmon, avocados and bananas.
The study team drew this conclusion after examining 22 randomised controlled trails and 11 cohort studies, which would indicate a high level of confidence in the results.
Additionally they found that higher potassium intake was associated with a 24% lower risk of stroke.
If you have high blood pressure it is vital that you consult your GP before making any dietary changes. Some hypertension medications can raise blood levels of potassium and may necessitate a low potassium diet.