What drinks should be avoided with hypertension?

November 21, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the CDC, nearly half of all adults in the United States have hypertension, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. For those managing this condition, monitoring dietary intake is crucial, and knowing what drinks should be avoided with hypertension is an essential part of the process.

Quick Summary

Several beverages can negatively impact blood pressure due to high levels of sugar, sodium, or caffeine. Limiting or avoiding sugary sodas, energy drinks, excessive alcohol, and certain coffee products is vital for managing hypertension and improving overall cardiovascular health.

Key Points

Avoid Sugary Beverages: Drinks high in added sugar, like soda and sweetened teas, can cause weight gain and contribute to higher blood pressure.
Limit Caffeine: Excessive caffeine, especially from energy drinks or too much coffee, can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure that is more pronounced in hypertensive individuals.
Moderate Alcohol Intake: Excessive and binge drinking of alcohol is a significant risk factor for high blood pressure and can interfere with medication.
Choose Low-Sodium Options: Be aware of high-sodium content in some juices, like certain tomato juices, and always read labels for unsalted varieties.
Prioritize Hydration with Water: Staying well-hydrated with water is a safe and healthy way to regulate blood pressure and support overall health.
Read Labels Carefully: Always check nutrition labels for added sugars, caffeine content, and sodium levels in any packaged beverage.

The Harmful Effects of High-Sugar Beverages

Many popular drinks are loaded with added sugars, which can significantly increase your risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. High-fructose corn syrup, a common sweetener in many beverages, is also linked to hypertension. Excess sugar intake can contribute to weight gain, another major risk factor for high blood pressure. This makes beverages like regular soda, sweetened fruit juices, and iced tea particularly problematic.

The Problem with Energy Drinks

Energy drinks present a double threat to individuals with hypertension: high levels of both caffeine and sugar. Studies have shown that some energy drinks can significantly increase both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The concentrated dose of stimulants can trigger a sudden spike in blood pressure, which is especially dangerous for those with severe hypertension. The combination of stimulants and sugar can place significant stress on the cardiovascular system.

Alcohol's Complicated Relationship with Blood Pressure

The relationship between alcohol consumption and blood pressure is complex, but excessive intake is clearly detrimental. Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure to unhealthy levels, and repeated binge drinking can lead to long-term hypertension. Alcohol consumption can also interact negatively with certain blood pressure medications, either affecting their potency or increasing side effects. The American Heart Association recommends limiting alcohol to no more than two drinks per day for men and one for women for those who choose to drink. However, a healthcare provider should always be consulted for personalized guidance.

The Caffeine Conundrum

Caffeine has a complex effect on blood pressure. For many, consuming caffeine can cause a temporary, but noticeable, spike in blood pressure that lasts for a few hours. While regular, moderate consumption may be safe for some, those who already have high blood pressure may be more sensitive to its effects. The American Heart Association suggests that consuming two or more cups of caffeinated coffee per day may increase the risk of serious complications in individuals with hypertension. Limiting intake or switching to decaffeinated alternatives can be a prudent strategy.

High-Sodium and Processed Beverages

While sodium is more commonly associated with solid foods, it can also be found in surprisingly high amounts in certain processed beverages and canned products. For instance, some commercial tomato juice brands can contain high levels of sodium, designed to enhance flavor. Excessive sodium intake leads to water retention, which increases the volume of blood and puts added pressure on the blood vessels. It is crucial to read labels and opt for low-sodium or unsalted varieties to help manage blood pressure.

List of Drinks to Avoid

Sugary Sodas: Regular soft drinks, including cola and lemon-lime varieties, are high in added sugars that negatively impact blood pressure.
Sweetened Iced Teas: Many pre-packaged iced teas contain a significant amount of sugar, contributing to weight gain and hypertension.
Energy Drinks: These beverages are packed with both caffeine and sugar, posing a dual risk to cardiovascular health.
Excessive Alcohol: Binge drinking or heavy, regular consumption of beer, wine, and spirits can significantly elevate blood pressure.
High-Caffeine Coffee: More than a couple of cups of caffeinated coffee per day can be problematic, especially for those sensitive to caffeine's effects.
High-Sodium Juices: Certain vegetable juices, like some tomato juices, may have added salt; always choose unsalted versions.

Comparison of Beverages and Their Impact on Hypertension


Beverage Type	Main Risk Factor	Impact on Blood Pressure	Recommended Consumption
Sugary Sodas	High Added Sugar	Directly increases blood pressure and risk of weight gain	Avoid or limit drastically
Energy Drinks	High Caffeine & Sugar	Can cause a significant and sudden temporary spike in blood pressure	Avoid completely
Excessive Alcohol	High Intake & Interactions	Raises blood pressure and can interfere with medication effectiveness	Moderate limits (1-2 drinks/day) or none, with doctor's advice
High-Caffeine Coffee	Caffeine	Temporary spike in blood pressure; higher risk with >2 cups/day for some	Limit to moderate intake or switch to decaf
High-Sodium Juices	High Sodium Content	Causes water retention and increased blood volume, raising blood pressure	Opt for low-sodium or unsalted versions
Water	None	Helps regulate blood pressure and keeps the body hydrated	Drink consistently throughout the day

Conclusion: Prioritize Heart-Healthy Habits

Making conscious beverage choices is a manageable but impactful step toward controlling hypertension. By minimizing or eliminating sugary, high-sodium, and high-caffeine drinks, you can reduce significant risk factors for elevated blood pressure. Opting for water, unsweetened teas, and low-fat milk can support a heart-healthy diet. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best dietary approach for your specific health needs. A thoughtful diet, including what you drink, is a cornerstone of effective hypertension management.

Optional Outbound Link

For more information on lifestyle changes to manage high blood pressure, visit the American Heart Association's website on managing blood pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the effect of caffeine varies individually, it can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure, especially in those with hypertension. Those with severe hypertension may be advised to limit or avoid it.

Some studies suggest non-caloric or diet sodas may not have the same immediate effects on blood pressure as regular soda, but it is best to opt for water, unsweetened tea, or fruit-infused water instead.

Excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure, so it is recommended to limit intake. The American Heart Association suggests up to one drink a day for women and two for men, but a doctor should be consulted for personal advice.

Many store-bought fruit juices contain high amounts of added sugar. However, some 100% unsweetened fruit juices like pomegranate or berry juice may be beneficial in moderation. It is always best to consume whole fruits over juice when possible.

Excess sodium in the diet, even from drinks like some canned juices or salty broths, causes the body to retain fluid. This increased fluid volume raises blood pressure and puts extra strain on the heart.

Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine and sugar. This combination can cause a dangerous and significant spike in blood pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events for those with pre-existing hypertension.

Excellent alternatives include water, sparkling water, herbal teas, or water infused with fruits like lemon or berries. These options are hydrating without the harmful effects of added sugar or caffeine.