High blood pressure left unchecked can cause kidney damage, stroke and even death. These simple lifestyle changes can help lower blood pressure.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: one month
Here's How:
- Lose weight if you are overweight. Losing ten pounds can have a dramatic effect on blood pressure.
- Exercise daily. At least 20 minutes of aerobic exercise is recommended.
- Read nutrition labels, especially on convenience foods. Choose foods low in sodium (salt). Most fast-food restaurants post nutrition information in their stores.
- Reduce or limit alcohol intake.
- Stop smoking.
- Reduce stress in your life as much as is possible.
- Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure. If you snore heavily or feel tired even after a full night sleep, ask your doctor for an evaluation.
- Follow your doctor's orders and take prescription medications as ordered.
Tips:
- Even a small amount of weight loss can lower blood pressure.
- Sudden, significant elevations in blood pressure should be reported immediately.
- Never discontinue a blood pressure medication except on the advice of your physician.
