High blood pressure, or hypertension, is not something to be taken lightly. It is a serious disease the cause of which is unknown. One fact health care professionals do know is that left untreated, high blood pressure over time can lead to serious heart disease and other vascular troubles, even death. Start with these 5 easy lifestyle changes. Always consult with your doctor before trying anything new with your health regime, and never go off of any medication without the advice of your doctor. Here is a list that any doctor can approve of:
1. Water
Yes, water is a way to cleanse and refresh every part of the body, even your blood vessels. Drink 8-10 glasses each day to flush out excess salt and toxins that make their way into the blood stream. You can use water to replace some drinks containing caffeine that temporarily raise blood pressure.
2. Smoking
If you are a long time smoker, you know how it affects your breathing. What you may not realize is its impact on your blood pressure. If you can’t quit completely, then cut down. Even a 50% reduction in the number of cigarettes smoked each week can help.
3. Exercise
A cardiovascular workout strengthens the heart. This is important because high blood pressure over time puts added strain on the heart. Just 20 minutes, 3 times per week of a sustained increase in heart rate will aid in lowering blood pressure.
4. Eating
If you are eating better and exercising, a nice by-product will be weight loss. By reducing your weight by 10%, you can significantly lower blood pressure. A diet that includes the freshest fruits and vegetables will support healthy blood pressure. Reduce or eliminate salt intake, and especially beware of “hidden” sodium found abundantly in pre-packaged convenience foods.
5. Stress
Many people have a temporary raise in blood pressure when they are under stress. If you have high blood pressure because of you are over weight or have a family history of hypertension, then stress raises it that much more. Try taking a walk, meditating or listening to relaxing music to take the edge off a stressful day. Make time for decompressing each and every day.