Make Lifestyle Changes That Matter
Explore each section to learn more.
Shake the salt habit
Most of the sodiumsodium in our diets comes from packaged, processed foods. Eating these foods less often can help reduce your sodium intake, lower your blood pressure, and even prevent high blood pressurehigh blood pressure from developing in the first place.
Limit alcohol
If you don’t drink alcohol, don’t start. If you choose to drinkdrink alcohol, limit your intake. If you do drink, talk with your health care professional about consuming alcohol in moderation. Drinking alcohol in moderation means no more than one to two drinks per day for men and no more than one drink per day for women. In general, a drink is 12 ounces of 5% alcohol by volume (ABV) beer, 5 ounces of 12% ABV table wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof (40% ABV) spirits, such as bourbon, vodka, or gin. Drinking too much alcohol may increase your risk for many health problems, including high blood pressure.
Enjoy regular physical activity
When it comes to physical activityphysical activity, just get moving. Find ways to enjoy and increase activity levels that work for you.
Manage stress
Relaxing for short periods during your workday, at night, and on weekends may help lower your blood pressure. Another great stress relieverstress reliever is to participate in activities that you enjoy, or plan activities with friends and family.
Maintain a healthy weight
Even small changes can make a meaningful difference for your health. If weighttweight is something you’re working on, losing just 5-10 pounds may help lower your blood pressure and support your heart.
Quit tobacco
For your overall health and to lower your risk for heart attack and stroke, avoid all forms of nicotinenicotine as well as secondhand smoke.
Take your medications
When you have high blood pressure, medicationmedication may be an important part of your treatment. Follow your treatment plans carefully, even if it means taking medication every day for the rest of your life.
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