7. Drinking excessive caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, energy drinks, and some teas. While moderate caffeine intake is generally safe, excessive consumption can cause temporary increases in blood pressure and jitteriness, which may counteract the relaxing effect of amlodipine on blood vessels.
Cutting back on caffeine can help stabilize your blood pressure readings and reduce symptoms like nervousness and insomnia, contributing to better overall control.
- Limit caffeine to two cups of coffee before noon.
- Switch afternoon beverages to decaffeinated or herbal teas.
- Monitor your symptoms as you reduce caffeine and adjust accordingly.
8. Consuming licorice candy or tea
True black licorice contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can increase blood pressure and cause fluid retention by affecting kidney function. Regular consumption of licorice candy or licorice-containing teas can counteract the blood pressure-lowering effects of amlodipine and increase swelling.
Many packaged snacks and herbal teas include licorice extract, so it is important to read ingredient lists carefully.
- Avoid products listing “licorice extract” or “glycyrrhizin” in the ingredients.
- Choose fruit-based candies or dark chocolate as alternatives.
- Select herbal teas without licorice root when seeking warm beverages.
