How to Steer Clear of High Blood Pressure

Every day, more and more people receive the diagnosis of hypertension or high blood pressure. There are many causes for high blood pressure, such as stress, lifestyle choices and genetics. In the areas of stress and lifestyle choices, the individual can make a difference in his high blood pressure just by making a few simple lifestyle changes.

Instructions

1




Monitor weight

Lose weight. This is one of the most important lifestyle changes a person can make toward lowering blood pressure. Just the mere fact of being overweight can raise blood pressure. Therefore, losing weight can lower blood pressure as well as diminish a host of other health problems.

2




Exercise regularly to lower blood pressure.

Exercise regularly. Exercising on a regular basis can greatly assist in lowering blood pressure. Regular exercise also contributes to losing excess weight as well. Embark on an exercise regimen by starting out slowly and building up over time until 30 to 60 minutes of exercise can be performed on a daily basis. Walking is a wonderful form of exercise to begin with.

3




Low glycemic foods can help keep blood pressure under control.

Eat healthy food. Choosing nourishing, low glycemic foods can support a healthy lifestyle and aid in lowering blood pressure naturally. Eating a low glycemic diet is important in that it helps to regulate insulin levels in the body, and therefore helps keep blood pressure readings low. A low glycemic diet is rich in fruits and vegetables and low in carbohydrates.

Limit the amount of sodium in foods as well. A high level of sodium leads to high blood pressure readings.

4




Avoid alcohol to improve blood pressure readings.

Limit your alcohol usage. Consumption of an abundance of alcohol has been associated with high blood pressure. Alcohol also can contribute to weight gain because it is high in calories.

5




The nicotine in cigarettes can raise blood pressure.

Don't smoke. Using nicotine can lead to high blood pressure due to the effects of nicotine on the body. Nicotine usage injures blood vessels and leads to hardening of the arteries. It can contribute to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, as well.