As people age, their health unfortunately starts to deteriorate. They begin to experience certain health conditions that are typically associated with ageing, such as chronic disease, sensory impairments, physical injuries, as well as cognitive and mental health disorders.
One of the main problems is high blood pressure, a.k.a. hypertension. Symptoms are not usually obvious, at least not until dangerously high levels are reached. The good thing is, checking this is one of the first things your doctor does when performing a physical exam. So, if you regularly visit your doctor’s office, your high blood pressure won’t be left undiagnosed. Alternatively, it is recommended that you acquire a digital blood pressure monitor and take your own readings on a regular basis.
Medications are often prescribed to treat hypertension, but you can also lower your blood pressure by way of simple lifestyle changes. Below are some of the lifestyle changes you can make to improve your blood pressure the natural way:
- Follow a low-carbohydrate diet. A low-carb diet restricts the intake of carbohydrates such as those found in grains, starchy vegetables, and fruit, and places an emphasis on foods that are high in protein and good fats, such as meat and eggs. Based on studies, this diet doesn’t just aid weight loss, but it also appears to significantly reduce blood pressure levels.
- Eat less salt. Consuming less sodium may lower your blood pressure a little. It’s important to know, though, that the body requires a certain amount of salt in order to function and that diets too low in sodium may be problematic for certain people. However, sticking to a low-carb diet automatically allows you to enjoy salt in moderation.
- Avoid the things that drive it up. This includes common painkillers, cortisone containing medication, birth control pills, coffee, alcohol in large amounts, nicotine, drugs, and black licorice in large quantities.
- Exercise has been shown to reduce blood pressure and make your heart stronger. It doesn’t mean you have to run a marathon or hit the gym right away. Simply including more physical activity into your daily routine can do the trick. This could be brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or even doing some household chores.
- Intermittent fasting. When you’re on an intermittent fasting diet, you eat less than the average person does in a day. This could help you control your intake of salt, along with sugar, carbs, and fats, which helps with your high blood pressure.
Note: Make sure to check with your doctor first before making any changes to your diet, and prior to starting a strenuous exercise regime or ceasing medications.
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