Ways To Take Control of High Blood Pressure

Whole body health is important, so today we would like to talk about blood pressure.  What do the numbers mean?  The systolic (top) number is the pressure while the heart beats.  The diastolic (bottom) number is the pressure while the heart rests.  There are ways to reduce your risk of serious complications with high blood pressure.  First, mind your meds.  If you’re on blood pressure medications, be sure to take them as directed.  Second, watch your sodium intake.  Choosing foods with less sodium and salt, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy, is a great way to combat high blood pressure.  Third, staying active helps with weight control, which can also lower your blood pressure.  Exercise has so many whole body benefits that it probably should have been the first one listed!  And finally, if you smoke, get help to quit.  Smoking harms the heart and blood vessels, thus increasing your risk for heart disease.  Untreated high blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, a stroke, or kidney disease.  If you haven’t had your blood pressure checked lately, try to get it checked soon!