Other High Blood Pressure Diet

Salt adds to high blood pressure

Eating a lot of salt (sodium) adds to high blood pressure. It holds excess fluid in your body and puts an added burden on your heart. Your doctor may tell you to cut down on the salt you use in cooking and not add salt to foods. He/she may also tell you to eat no salt at all. Try to read food labels so you will know which foods are high in sodium. And learn to use herbs or salt substitutes instead. This change of high blood pressure diet will help you lower high blood pressure.

Alcohol can be fatal for people with high blood pressure

If you have high blood pressure, ask your doctor if you are allowed to drink alcohol and if so, how much you are allowed to drink. Alcohol is a high blood pressure diet and if you drink more than two ounces a day (about two beers, glasses of wine or mixed drinks), it may add to high blood pressure. If cutting back on alcohol is hard for you to do on your own, ask about community groups that can help.

How do I be more active?

An inactive lifestyle is a risk factor for heart disease. It also tends to add obesity, which is a risk factor for high blood pressure. Regular exercise helps to control weight and reduce stress. It is best to start slowly and do something you enjoy, like taking walks or riding a bike. Talk to your health care professional about a good plan for you.