A healthy lifestyle is key to keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range. When you prevent high blood pressure, known in the medical field as 'hypertension', you lower your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other medical complications.
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is not a 'one-size-fits-all' choice to make. It's important that you choose the right diet by performing independent research and consulting with your primary care provider to ensure you are satisfying your body's nutritional needs.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Carrying around extra weight can put you at an increased risk of developing high blood pressure. Doctors often calculate your body mass index (BMI) to determine if your weight is in a healthy range. This Adult BMI Calculator provided by the CDC is a great tool to help you find your BMI.
3. Make Physical Activity a Priority
Exercising and moving your body is a great way to prevent high blood pressure. Experts recommend getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week. Walking, running, cycling, swimming - the possibilities are endless AND fun!
4. Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and can increase your risk of other health complications. Healthcare professionals recommend men limit themselves to two drinks per day and women limit themselves to one.
5. Get the Right Amount of Sleep
Research shows that the amount of sleep you get each night directly affects your health. Consistent lack of sleep can increase your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.
6. Avoid Smoking
Along with numerous other health complications, smoking can also raise your blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease. If you smoke, quitting can significantly lower your risk of heart disease within the first 24 hours. For help with quitting, be sure to talk to your primary care provider.
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