Surprising Things That Can Impact Your Blood Pressure
By Sara Butler
Blood pressure is something that should be of concern to everyone. That’s because high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a silent killer. It often has no symptoms other than high blood pressure readings and has a huge impact on your health and wellness. The best way to protect yourself is to understand the things you may be doing to drive up your blood pressure.
Eating Canned Foods
There is a chemical often found in the lining of cans called BPA, or bisphenol A. Exposure to them can, over time, increase your blood pressure. Studies have shown that drinking two canned beverages can increase blood pressure more than drinking two drinks served in a glass. It’s important to limit your exposure to BPA, so eat fewer canned foods and make sure to opt for stainless steel or glass containers for food storage. Also, never cook food in a plastic container in the microwave.
Consuming Too Much Caffeine
If you love a good energy drink in the afternoon or a strong cup of coffee, it may be having a negative impact on your blood pressure numbers. If you have high blood pressure or are on the line between high blood pressure it’s important to limit the amount of caffeine you consume in order to help keep your numbers in the safe range.
Eating Sweet Foods
Salty foods have a reputation for causing an increase in blood pressure, but most people don’t know that sweet food can do the same thing -- maybe even more. Studies have found that people who drank beverages make from fructose or glucose had a significant increase in blood pressure. Instead of drinks with loads of sugar in them, try water flavored with fresh fruit or club soda. It’ll do your blood pressure and your waistline good.
Anger
If you need another reason to learn some deep breathing exercises to control anger, helping out your blood pressure is another reason to get a handle on it. Anger and stress are harmful to your health in a myriad of ways. Studies have found that people who tend to fly off the handle easier have higher incidences of heart disease than those who can learn to keep tabs on their anger. Try meditation or yoga to help you keep things in perspective.
Blood pressure is important to keep tabs on or you could pay with your health!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mesa, Ariz.