Doctors check blood pressure at the beginning of each appointment. The nurse places a cuff on the arm which squeezes the area. Sometimes, in fact, it can feel a bit uncomfortable and tight. That reading, typically lower than 120 over 80, indicates how the body is doing. Anything higher is a sign of hypertension, a condition in which the blood flowing through the arteries is putting too much force on the artery walls. Allowed to linger, it can lead to major health problems. Persistent issues should be monitored with patients attempting to make changes to lifestyle and diet. The following are four ways to make that happen.
Embrace Cardio
The heart reacts to exercise. Regular workouts, then, may reduce blood pressure readings. These should be consistent, happening at least four to five days a week. Each session should contain some cardio or strength training and last for about 30 minutes. Irregular attempts or frequent breaks may not be as effective; therefore, develop a schedule, and stick to it. If some encouragement is needed look into fitness classes Burlington ON. Having a support system might give a bit of accountability.
Drink Water
Salt levels may be diminished with proper hydration. Consider eating a low salt diet paired with having several glasses of water a day. Flushing out the system could improve its functioning, helping the heart feel less stressed.
Eat Potassium
Potassium battles sodium, so consume vegetables or fruits each day. Green leafy veggies such as spinach, broccoli, peas and mushrooms are a just a few healthy choices.
Relax
Tension builds not just in the muscles but also within the artery walls. Frequently anxiety, thus, impacts blood pressure, increasing it drastically. Discover ways to calm down. Practice deep breathing. Enroll in yoga.
Take care of your heart, and the blood that flows through it. Proper exercise and diet are important in keeping it in better shape.