High blood pressure is a common condition and can affect people of different ages and for various different reasons. It could be that you are feeling extremely stressed in your daily life, or your diet isn’t optimal and high in saturated fats. Perhaps you are heading towards retirement and your cholesterol levels have started sneaking up or maybe it is hereditary and your mum or dad had high blood pressure.
High blood pressure can be a bit sneaky and does not always present with any signs or symptoms, however sometimes people get reoccurring headaches upon waking and at the back of their heads, nose bleeds, shortness of breath or chest pain.
If unaddressed high blood pressure can cause further health complications such as heart disease, stroke, or kidney problems. Whatever the reason its super important that high blood pressure is managed and if you are experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms please see your GP.
Here are some tips to help assist in the reduction of your high blood pressure.
- Reduce sodium rich foods – such as deli meats or bacon. Check the labels of your packaged foods and ensure the sodium content isn’t too high. The average adult should not be having more than 2000mg/day (Nutrient Reference Values, Australia).
- Reduce alcohol consumption, work towards having some alcohol free nights.
- Reduce stress levels, try including something in your daily routine that makes you feel relaxed.
- Reduce smoking of cigarettes, looking to quit altogether.
- Include exercise in your weekly routine, look at beginning with 3-4 x per week for 30 minutes.
If high blood pressure is a concern for you, or if you are wondering what you can do ensure that high blood pressure is never an issue for you then please book a consultation. I can tailor a program specifically for you working around your lifestyle and needs.