5 Healthy Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Hypertension

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a condition we hear about often, but we don’t always consider the possible risks and repercussions associated with it. If you have hypertension, you’re in a higher risk category for developing heart disease or having a stroke. In order to prevent or manage high blood pressure, here are some changes you can to apply to your daily life.

1. Exercise

While it’s common knowledge that leading an active lifestyle promotes health and fitness, it’s also a good way of lowering your blood pressure. Physical activity burn calories, which assists in maintaining a healthy weight. Exercise also releases natural hormones that can improve your mood and allow the components of your body to function properly.

2. Reduce Salt Intake

Choosing to cut down salt consumption can contribute to regulating your blood pressure. Start reading food labels and choose foods with lower amounts of sodium. Nutrition Australia has set an adequate  intake of sodium to be 460–920 mg per day. [1]  A handy tip is to stay away from processed foods as they often contain high amounts of sodium.

3. Go for foods high in potassium

Eating certain foods rich in potassium can help prevent hypertension. It can be easily found in what are usually regarded as healthy types of food, such as fruits and vegetables. Bananas, beans, sweet potatoes and spinach are just a few foods high in potassium.

4. Cut back on alcohol consumption & quit smoking

Bad habits can cancel out the healthy lifestyle changes we incorporate in our daily lives. When it comes to high blood pressure, you really want to try quitting smoking and cutting down on drinking.   It’s recommended that men can have two standard alcoholic drinks while women can have one standard alcoholic drink per day.Quitting smoking will be one of the best decisions you can make for your health.

Modern Medical Craigieburn’s medical centre and its team of experienced doctors can provide advice and support if you or a family member have problems with hypertension or want further information. Our doctors strive to provide the best health service in Craigieburn. Our clinics in Balwyn, Bayswater, Caroline Springs, Dandenong, Glenroy, Hobsons Bay, and St. Kilda Road are equally equipped to provide advice and support when it comes to your health and wellbeing.