While high blood pressure aka hypertension can happen at any age, it seems that adults 55 years of age and older seem to get diagnosed more frequently. However, there are many things you can do, no matter how old you are, that can make a difference and greatly prolong your life. You just have to have to commit to follow through.
1. If you are overweight, lose the excess pounds. The extra pounds can weigh heavily (pun intended) on the heart. If your heart has to work harder in order to pump oxygen throughout your body, you will have a high blood pressure because of it. Changing your eating habits and incorporating exercise goes a long way toward having a healthy heart and losing weight.
2. Cut your sodium intake. Your body needs only about a teaspoon a day. However, between processed foods and that salt shaker on your table, you are likely getting three or more times that amount. Salt constricts the blood vessels which in turn hinders blood flow. Your heart has to work overtime then in order to pump oxygenated blood throughout the body, thus raising blood pressure. Be sure to read food packaging for lower sodium options and hide that salt shaker!
3. A heart healthy diet is important. This means first and foremost, plenty of vegetables, especially the dark and leafy green variety. Fibrous fruits, low fat dairy, lean meats, plenty of fish and whole grains are exceptionally healthy. Natural foods are optimal - nothing processed is usually healthy. Raw vegetables make for great snacks and remember the "no white" rule. This rule states that most foods made with white flour as opposed to whole wheat should be shunned. White bread and pasta have a high calorie and high carbohydrate count. There are plenty of whole grain substitutes that offer a healthier version.
4. Exercise is important. If you live a rather sedentary life, you will need to introduce cardiovascular exercises gradually. Walking is perhaps the easiest way to get started. As your stamina increases, weight and strength training can be beneficial as well. When possible, take the stairs or park your car far from a store entrance. Take up gardening. Anything that gets your heart pumping and your body losing fat is important. This means sex too!
5. Smoking is a big no-no for adults who have high blood pressure or pre-hypertension. Smoking not only robs your blood of essential oxygen, it causes cancer and constricts your blood vessels as well.
6. A few alcoholic drinks like red wine can be good for your. However, excessive consumption is not. Men should have no more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day while women should only have one. Too much alcohol can enlarge your liver or damage your kidneys. This in turn can affect blood pressure.
The best defense is a good offense. Therefore, you should really take care of your body using the steps above when you are young. However, it is never too late to adopt new, healthier habits. You can keep from getting high blood pressure if you are still diagnosed in the pre-hypertension stages. You can also effectively lower your blood pressure and keep it at a healthy level once you adopt some better lifestyle choices.
