Eating a heart-healthy diet is one of the best treatments for high blood pressure, commonly known as hypertension.
DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) is a flexible and balanced eating plan that helps create a heart-healthy eating style for life.
It doesn’t mean delicious, sweet foods have to be entirely off-limits, it’s just about finding the right recipes – like this one for apple and blackberry muffins.
Shared by Blood Pressure UK, the baked treats are packed with seasonal fruits and a hint of cinnamon to bring out the flavour.
They’re perfect for those experiencing hypertension too, thanks to the use of low-sodium baking powder, which is available in health food shops.
Method
Start by lining a 12-hole muffin tin with paper or reusable silicone cases. If you don’t have any at home, grease the tin well with a low-cholesterol spread or cooking spray.
Next, preheat the oven to 200C/400F/ Gas mark 6, then take a large mixing bowl and combine the sugar, diced apples, blackberries and cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder before making a well in the centre. Take a jug and crack in the eggs then add the milk followed by the sunflower oil.
Pour the liquid into the flour bowl and stir everything together until just blended. Stir in the fruit mixture, taking care not to overmix.
Finally, divide the mixture among the muffin cases then bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool and enjoy on their own as a snack or evening sweet treat.
