Helping to Reduce High Blood Pressure

The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to have it medically checked, because many people have gone years without the knowledge that their blood pressure is too high. High blood pressure can lead to strokes or heart attacks, and is known as the “silent killer.”

There are several suggestions to lower your blood pressure, besides prescription drugs. By changing your eating habits to a low sodium diet, along with consuming foods that are high in calcium, potassium and magnesium you will, over time, not only lower your blood pressure, but also shed a few extra pounds. Some of the foods you will want to be careful of are cheese, ice cream, cookies, French fries, fried foods and most fast foods. Instead, you should eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, leaner meats, boiled potatoes and grilled or baked meats.

Exercise is also another method to reduce your blood pressure, as long as you do the right type of exercise. It is always a good idea to warm up before and cool down after exercising. Also, do not try to do any exercises that are too strenuous, because it will be hard on your heart which, in turn, could make your blood pressure higher. Some of the better exercises would be walking, riding a bike, or Yoga. It is recommended that you do at least 30 minutes of exercises four times a week.

If you have high blood pressure, which is hereditary, then exercise is the best thing you can do to lower it, after you have talked with your physician. Remember that if you eat right and exercise you will maintain a better weight, which will reduce your blood pressure and your chances of a stroke.