Hypertension: 10 tips to beat

High blood pressure or hypertension (HPT) in its medical term, is a condition that can affect us at any point in our lives. a slight elevation of blood pressure does not necessarily pose an immediate threat but an extended period of HPT increases the risk of heart and kidney disease, stroke and even blindness.

what makes HPT even more dangerous is that obvious symptoms are usually not present

so, how do you keep your pressure under control? here are some tips to follow:

• eat a diet that is high in fruits and vegetables, as this has been proven to protect against the complications of HPT

• hold the salt! to flavour food substitute salt with herbs and spices instead. if you must have salt choose products with natural sodium content like liquid amino or sea salt

• increase your intake of potassium-rich foods like bananas, potatoes and tofu which are heart friendly

• eat cereals made off whole grains. these include oatmeal, barley and rye

• exercise! just a brisk walk around your neighbourhood will do wonders for your heart and blood vessels

• replace your morning coffee with tea

• have a sweet tooth? opt for dark chocolate instead of milk or white chocolate

• take supplements such as ginkgo and omega-3 oil

• get enough sleep! a lack of sleep is said to contribute to high blood pressure.

• smoking is a leading cause of heart disease-related deaths. so, remember that before you light up!

-source: HealthToday megazine