Overview

High blood pressure is a risk factor for serious health conditions. Person with hypertension or the ones who are vulnerable to develop high blood pressure need to follow certain lifestyle pattern. There are certain specific things such as diet plan, weight management, physical activities, etc that may be effective in management of hypertension.

Understanding high blood pressure

The pressure exerted by the blood on the blood vessels is called blood pressure. The blood pressure does not remain same throughout the day, it may rise and fall depending on your activities. In hypertension, blood exerts more pressure on the blood vessels causing various health risks.

Importance of lifestyle modification in managing hypertension

Changing your daily routine for better can do wonders in managing high blood pressure and also other health conditions. A healthy lifestyle can help lower the blood pressure and save you from high blood pressure consequences.

Recommended lifestyle changes to manage hypertension

Quit smoking

Smoking is a risk factor for heart problems and quitting smoking is effective in preventing cardio problems. When a person smokes the blood pressure increases for some time. High blood pressure and smoking has been a common cause of heart related problems. People who have quit smoking has shown remarkable result in reduction of death due to chronic heart problems and has indirectly managed hypertension.

Take proper nutrition

A nutrient rich diet may work on high blood pressure and reduce the chances of heart diseases. Given below are the things to keep in mind while choosing the right diet for hypertension –

• Limit your salt intake – reduce salt intake by avoiding processed foods, use spices to add flavour to foods, pick foods with no added salt.
• Eat potassium rich diet
• Consume healthy diet – eat variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and eat low fat foods.
• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption – too much of alcohol consumption increases blood pressure hence it is recommended not to exceed the recommended amount of alcohol.

Keep moving

Do not spend all time sitting or lying. Keeping yourself active, engaging into some sports or taking a regular walk can regularise high blood pressure.

Get enough sleep

Having a good sleep is good for blood vessels and heart. Insufficient sleep increases the risk of heart problems and hypertension.

Control your body weight

Obesity or over weight is directly linked to high blood pressure. Studies have shown that with weight loss there is a significant reduction in blood pressure. Maintaining ideal BMI prevents cardiovascular problems, manage diabetes and promote sound sleep.

Conclusion

Lifestyle changes is an important part to manage blood pressure regardless of any treatment for blood pressure. Lifestyle modification as recommended by your healthcare provider can benefit in a long run to control hypertension and prevent serious health conditions.