Salt isn’t the only thing individuals looking to reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure should cut from their diets, according to a new study. Researchers say cutting back on processed foods and beverages that contain high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) may help prevent hypertension.

A research team at the University of Colorado Denver Health Sciences Center examined 4,528 adults with no prior history of hypertension. Fructose intake was calculated based on a dietary questionnaire, and foods such as fruit juices, soft drinks, bakery products and candy were included.

They found that people who ate or drank more than 74 grams per day of fructose – about 2.5 sugary soft drinks per day- increased their risk of developing high blood pressure. In addition, the more HFCS they consumed, the risk for higher blood pressure readings increased.

"These results indicate that high fructose intake in the form of added sugars is significantly and independently associated with higher blood pressure levels in the U.S. adult population with no previous history of hypertension," the authors concluded.

According to WebMD, one in four adults has hypertension, which is a major risk factor for developing heart disease, kidney disease and stroke. In addition to lifestyle changes, supplements containing potassium, calcium, fish oil, magnesium and garlic may help prevent it.