As the stale health cliché goes, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. But, what if you could swig your way to optimum health too? Good news for all you beverage buffs out there, specific drinks like certain juices and teas will not only tickle your taste buds, but they may also be your allies in the fight against high blood pressure.

We get it, hypertension affects nearly half of our fellow Americans, potentially leading to grave issues like heart disease if left to roam unfettered. But don't go necking a bottle of whiskey in despair just yet (that stunt's not going to get your blood pressure down), we're here to tell you about healthier alternatives that could help.

Tea, for instance, isn’t just a comforting warm hug in a cup. Drinking green or black tea for over three months can actually steer your blood pressure readings in a downwards direction. And, as an added bonus, green tea bags you the extra punch of having a stronger effect on blood pressure compared to its black cousin.

Ever had some beetroot juice? No? Well, get ready to make this red wonder a regular guest at your breakfast table because this beverage is loaded with compounds known as nitrates. These little beauties transform into nitric oxide in your body, turning your blood vessels into super highways and reducing the strain on your heart. Ain’t that just beet-utiful?

Tomato juice, especially unsalted, is another drink that's stealing the show. Regular consumption may lower blood pressure whilst also kicking your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol to the curb. It’s like getting a two-for-one deal that benefits your health.

And remember, kiddos, excess is the keyword when we talk about salt intake. So, keep things low-sodium to avoid laying a red carpet welcome for higher blood pressure.

Pomegranates, despite their being tricky to peel, have managed to make a name for themselves in the blood pressure hall of fame. Downing a glass of pomegranate juice daily can lower your blood pressure, while delivering a range of healthy nutrients your body will greet with open arms.

The crucial PSA here is to avoid added sugars like the plague. Sugar-coated health is often a fallacy.

And lastly, a shoutout to our berry good friends – different types of berries and their respective juices can aid in lowering your blood pressure. However, just remember to opt for the unsweetened varieties because, again, sugar is not your friend here.

While some drinks are friends with benefits – lower blood pressure, that is – others like alcohol, coffee, sugar-laden sodas, and certain energy drinks are more frenemies than actual friends. If you've got high blood pressure or are at risk, proceed with caution. As with most things in life, moderation is key.