Thousands of people across the globe are succumbing to the silent killer called hypertension or high blood pressure ( HBP) every year. In today's fast paced stress ridden life most people suffer from extreme stress and tension. This in turn elevates the blood pressure levels.
Besides stress another factor which contributes to hypertension is obesity. Convenience foods and fast foods which are laden with saturated fat and sodium have contributed to the burgeoning obesity levels in America.
If high blood pressure is left untreated it can lead to greater health problems in the form of heart diseases and kidney failure. Blood pressure can be controlled by consulting your doctor regularly and diligently taking the medicines which have been prescribed to bring down the blood pressure levels.
A recent survey has revealed that nearly one in five Americans suffer from high blood pressure. Some of the earliest signs of hypertension or high blood pressure include; frequent spells of dizziness, headaches, and palpitations and in some cases even severe nose bleeds.
There are several natural ways to control high blood pressure.
One of the best ways to control spiraling blood pressure is to make some minor modification to the diet. The American Health Association has formulated the DASH (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension) diet plan to lower blood pressure levels naturally. This diet plan encourages people with high blood pressure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables along with whole grain cereals, fish and lean meat, low fat dairy products and nuts, seeds and legumes.
Dark chocolate, fish oil, garlic pods and foods which are rich in calcium, potassium and magnesium (oranges, broccoli, kale, cantaloupe and melons) have been known to reduce high blood pressure levels.
Effective weight management by following a proper exercise routine can also reduce escalating blood pressure levels. Cardiovascular exercises are one of the best exercise forms to reduce hypertension.
Consciously cut on your sodium intake. Stay away from processed and other high salty foods including crisps and certain types of cheeses to reduce HBP. Learn to relax, as stress can lead to multiple health problems. Practicing yoga, mediation or Tai Chi are some wonderful ways to unwind at the end of a stress filled day.
Eating vitamin B and potassium rich foods, abstaining from alcohol consumption and smoking and reducing caffeine consumption can help to lower high blood pressure.
