subject: Managing Hypertension With Diet and Exercise [print this page] More and more people are suffering from hypertension as a result of unhealthy lifestyle. Although genetics play a major part in the development of the disease, it is still important that you become conscious of your health and make sure you avoid the risks factors of these common yet deadly heart condition.
Risk Factors
Based on studies more and more younger people are suffering from hypertension. The major culprits are believed to be stress, sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits. If you smoke and abuse alcohol, you are also more likely to develop this condition.
As early as possible, you should look at the way you live and make an effort to get rid of all the bad habits which you know are bad your heart.
De-Stressing
With commercialism, people have forgotten the importance of quality living. Most work more than 8 hours a day in order to earn more and buy the things they want. But the price you pay for overworking is quite high. In exchange for the material things, you compromise your health.
It is important that you learn to work "smart" instead of "hard". Find out how you can be more productive without working overtime. Also, you need to leave your work problems in the office and unwind at home. Avoid thinking about work-related matters as soon as you open the front door.
Never forget to enjoy "me" time. Even if it is only a bubble bath, an hour of reading your favorite book or a a walk around the block, you should set aside time for personal enjoyment.
Eating
Health experts recommend that you eat more fruits and vegetables and less fatty and salty foods. Be serious about following a healthy diet. If you are having trouble finding healthy food to eat at work, then make your own meals at home. All you need to do is to wake up earlier in the morning to do this and you will be rewarded with a healthy heart. At the same time, you will be able to save more.
Exercise
You need not enroll in a gym to get fit. It is only a matter of choosing your activities. For instance, if your office is just a couple of blocks away from your home, you might want to consider walking home. You should also take the stairs in your office building as often as you can. At home, you can tend to your garden, mow the lawn or scrub the floors, activities which are guaranteed to make you sweat.
If you need to take hypertension medication, then you should follow your doctor's advise regarding dose and administration. Do not think that just because you are already on medication, you can do away with eating right and exercising.
