-
=X
Log out Welcome back Are you a therapist? Join us Log in
Find a therapist
  • Home
  • Therapies
  • FAQs
  • Articles
  • Local events
  • Your stories
Welcome
Members areaLog out
Log inJoin us
Bookmarks (-)
  • Home>
  • Articles>
  • Balance your blood pressure

Balance your blood pressure

Tamara Marshall
by Tamara Marshall, writer at Therapy Directory
April 25th, 2014
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
Bookmark
April 25th, 2014
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
Bookmark
Simple lifestyle changes are key to managing your blood pressure and reducing your risk of heart disease. 
Balance your blood pressure

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension) you will need to start thinking more carefully about your health – especially as it can be a silent killer.

A lot of the time, symptoms of high blood pressure go unnoticed, and according to the British Heart Foundation, as many as five million Britons could be undiagnosed.

High blood pressure can quietly damage your body for years before symptoms develop, and the consequences could mean a number of life-threatening complications – including heart disease.

So in order to balance your blood pressure and keep your heart as healthy as possible, follow these simple life-changing steps:

Know your risk 

The causes of high blood pressure are unclear, but there are various risk factors that have been identified. These include:

  • adults over the age of 65
  • being overweight or obese
  • high consumption of alcohol
  • high consumption of caffeine
  • high consumption of salt
  • a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables
  • lack of exercise
  • those of African or Caribbean descent
  • those with family members who have high blood pressure.

Knowing these risks is an important step to helping you make lifestyle changes that will decrease the likelihood of developing high blood pressure – or will help you to better manage it.

Lose weight 

Extensive research suggests there is a strong link between weight and high blood pressure. If you are overweight and want to embark on a weight-loss programme, consult your GP for advice. They will typically advise a combination of healthy diet and exercise.

Reduce your salt intake 

A healthy diet is key to stabilising your blood pressure. Eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, and devoid of unprocessed goods will provide the body with essential minerals and vitamins to help it function smoothly. Reducing salt intake is particularly important as sodium raises blood pressure. Ensure you eat no more than 6g a day.

Cut back on alcohol and cigarettes 

Binge drinking is extremely dangerous for those with high blood pressure, but heavy smoking can also have negative effects. This is because they harden arteries and blood vessels, which could lead to heart disease. Keep alcohol consumption to special occasions only and stopping smoking altogether is strongly advised. 

Take time to relax 

Often high blood pressure can be exacerbated by stress, so it is important for sufferers to take time to relax and find their inner calm. Alternative treatments and complementary therapy such as yoga, massage, acupressure and reflexology are well-known for their stress reducing and relaxation benefits. For more information on a wide range of treatments available, check out our therapy topics page.

View and comment on the original SheKnows article. 

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Other articles by Tamara

  • DIY Ayurvedic foot massage
  • Treat back pain with physiotherapy
  • Five natural remedies for arthritis
Aromatherapy oils to beat anxiety Who yoga therapy can help
Search for a therapist near you
advanced search

print this page

Connect with us

Facebook
Twitter
Have you tried Bowen therapy before? Here we share some of the benefits >> https://t.co/eh48Q3ucMd https://t.co/qgDsHfoDjK
Get involved
More information
  • Home
  • About
  • Legal terms
  • Cookie policy
  • Privacy notice
  • Browse by region
  • Links
  • Press Centre
  • Site help

Company Details

  • Therapy Directory, Building 3
  • Riverside Way, Camberley
  • Surrey, GU15 3YL
  • Membership Services Team: 0333 325 2505 *
  • Contact us
  • * Calls to 03 numbers cost the same as calling an 01 or 02 number and count towards any inclusive minutes in the same way as 01 and 02 calls.

Copyright © 2019
Site by Memiah Limited

Healthy ideas that change the world

Get our free monthly e-magazine straight to your inbox

Find out more at happiful.com

Happiful magazine cover
Before using our site, please take a moment to review our Privacy Notice and Cookies policy. By continuing to use this site we'll assume you agree to both.
Ok