BLOOD PRESSURE: DO'S AND
DON'TS
Blood pressure may be affected by many things beyond our control. However,
there are several areas related to lifestyle which are within our control.
Giving these areas some thought and making simple changes may help to lower a
high blood pressure measurement.
Salt intake
When blood pressure is already found to be raised, salt can contribute to
keeping it at a high level.
Therefore:
- Salt should be avoided.
- No salt should be added to food during cooking or at the table.
- Many fast foods have a high salt content - avoid these as far as possible.
- Foods such as bacon, ham and salted peanuts should be reduced considerably.
- Always check on the salt content of drugs bought over the counter, such as
antacids.
If a salty taste is desired a salt substitute should be used. These can be
bought at any supermarket.
Weight reduction
If overweight, a programme of weight reduction should be undertaken together
with regular exercise. Studies have shown that there is benefit in weight
reduction in overweight people with raised blood pressure. Weight loss results
in a significant fall in blood pressure.
Exercise
Regular, moderate exercise such as swimming, cycling and walking is
recommended. Exercise which involves pushing and pulling such as weight
lifting, might be harmful to people with high blood pressure and is probably
best avoided. Regular exercise helps in several other ways. It encourages
people to lose weight and stop smoking. Various forms of relaxation can also
help in reducing blood pressure. If exercise has not been taken for some time,
always check with a doctor before starting a new exercise programme.
Alcohol
Excessive alcohol intake should be avoided. Alcohol intake. in moderate
amounts is not forbidden.
Smoking
It is strongly recommended that people found to have high blood pressure
should definitely abstain from smoking altogether. Cigarette smoking can raise
blood pressure as well as contribute towards the development of heart disease
and lung cancer.
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