Blood Pressure Control - Do’s and Don’ts
Drugs, diet and a healthy exercise regime can control hypertension. If it is not controlled it can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, stroke and even blindness and dementia. Both obesity and a high salt intake contribute to the cause of hypertension.
Lifestyle changes not only help in reducing high blood pressure but they also help in improving overall cardiac health. Patients who make lifestyle changes may be able to avoid or delay their need for blood pressure medication.
Leading a healthy life style means taking regular exercise, eating a diet low in sodium and fat and high in fruits and vegetables, being the right weight for your height, (drinking sensibly and not smoking.
High Blood pressure can be controlled by following the below mentioned steps:
- Maintain a healthy body weight. Lose weight if you are overweight.
- Follow a moderate exercise daily regimen (at least 30 minutes daily).
- Follow a healthy eating plan, which is low in sodium.
- If you drink, drink in moderation.
- If you are being prescribed medication, take it regularly.
- Know your numbers (check your blood pressure regularly)
With a good regime of diet control and some lifestyle changes it is possible to control hypertension or at least reduce your medication and maintain a good quality of life.
