During cold weather, lower temperatures can cause an increase in catecholamines in the bloodstream. This leads to blood vessel constriction and subsequently raises vascular pressure, resulting in increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure.

Alarmingly, systolic blood pressure in some individuals may exceed 180 mmHg, and in cases of severe spikes, it may reach 200 mmHg. If this condition is not detected and treated promptly, it can cause cerebral vessel rupture and lead to death.

So what should people with hypertension be aware of when the weather turns cold? In addition to adhering to treatment and maintaining regular physical activity, patients should ensure they drink enough water each day. They should consume 2–3 liters of water daily, preferably warm, and divide it into multiple servings. It is important not to wait until feeling thirsty to drink.

---

Drinks that help control blood pressure

Staying well hydrated improves blood circulation and reduces blood pressure spikes caused by hemoconcentration. However, in cold weather, people often drink less water due to habit. Besides plain water, individuals with hypertension may consider the following three beverages to help manage blood pressure:

---

1. Teas that help reduce blood pressure

Green tea and hibiscus tea are beneficial for cardiovascular health and hypertension. Green tea is rich in antioxidants and, when consumed regularly, may help lower blood pressure. Hibiscus tea has mild diuretic and vasodilating effects, which can help reduce blood pressure.

Patients should drink these teas warm and without added sugar, and consume them in moderation. Those with sensitive stomachs should avoid drinking green tea on an empty stomach.

---

2. Can people with high blood pressure drink coconut water?

Coconut water contains potassium, electrolytes, and magnesium, which help regulate blood pressure. Drinking one glass of coconut water per day is recommended, without added sugar and preferably not cold.

---

3. Beetroot juice

Some studies suggest that drinking fresh beetroot juice may temporarily lower blood pressure after consumption. This is due to nitrate content, which helps dilate blood vessels. Beetroot also contains vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium—nutrients beneficial for heart health.

People may choose the beverage they prefer but should drink only moderate amounts.

---

Can people with high blood pressure drink coffee?

Coffee is a popular drink, but should individuals with hypertension consume it regularly?

Coffee contains caffeine, a stimulant that increases alertness. However, excessive caffeine intake triggers the adrenal glands to release substances that increase heart rate and blood pressure. This effect is generally mild; for regular coffee drinkers, blood pressure may rise by about 5 mmHg, while in those who rarely drink coffee, it may increase by up to 10 mmHg.

If drinking coffee causes symptoms such as nausea, discomfort, chest tightness, or palpitations, consumption should be stopped immediately. For those who still wish to drink coffee regularly, it is advisable to limit intake to one small cup per day, choose decaffeinated coffee (97% of caffeine removed), and avoid drinking it early in the morning.