Hypertension
Hypertension is also referred to as high blood pressure and affects nearly 1.3 billion people worldwide. It significantly increases your risk of heart, brain, kidney, and other diseases, and is a major cause of premature death.
Lifestyle medicine is the use of lifestyle interventions in the treatment and management of disease. These interventions can be effective in the prevention and treatment of chronic conditions, including hypertension.
Lifestyle changes should be implemented as a first-line treatment to both prevent and manage hypertension.
Physical activity is a cornerstone of the prevention and treatment of high blood pressure. Research shows that aerobic exercise can significantly reduce blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
Healthful nutrition is also a fundamental component of treating hypertension using lifestyle medicine. By increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables (including leafy greens), whole grains, legumes, while avoiding foods that contain saturated fat, and large amounts of sodium, we can combat hypertension.
Body weight can influence blood pressure levels. For individuals who are overweight or obese, weight management becomes an important aspect of addressing hypertension. We recognize that each person’s journey towards better health is unique and should be supported with empathy and understanding.
Moderation in alcohol consumption can also improve hypertension. For women, moderate alcohol intake is defined as one drink per day, while for men, it is limited to two drinks per day.
Better yet, abstaining from alcoholic beverages altogether can have a dramatically positive impact on our overall health.
Stress can also play a significant factor in hypertension. By focusing on reducing chronic stress along with other lifestyle changes, patients can improve their blood pressure.
Tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors for many health conditions, including hypertension. Smoking causes an increase in peripheral vascular resistance, which leads to hypertension. Smoking cessation can create significant changes in blood pressure.
At Healthy Conditions, we know that changing your lifestyle can be difficult. That’s why our experts are here to help you every step of the way. From education to support groups and everything you need along the way, we’re here to help you transform your health.
