Healthy Ways to Lower Blood Pressure
By Tom Herrin
There are an abundance of issues that seem to come with age in regards to health. Some of it may be simply from the nature of the body as it ages. In the United States, there appears to be a general consensus that the range around 120 over 80 is considered to be normal. While there are some natural variations, even within one individual at various times throughout the day, trends of increased numbers raise concern. On the other hand, many health professionals in Canada seem to accept slowly increasing numbers as being OK as people age. Whatever happens to be the case, managing blood pressure problems is a concern for many people. For those who wish to avoid medications, lifestyle changes may make a difference.
Losing Weight Usually Helps
For anyone with almost any kind of health problem, losing a few pounds can often have a significant impact. Carrying any extra pounds can always take a toll on the body. With that said, it is obviously a hug challenge for many. There is no magic formula, but using better health as motivation can sometimes change perspective. If it can serve as an incentive to simply limit the number of helpings, or make some minor changes in diet, a person can likely begin to see some loss after a short period of time. The effect of losing weight can show up pretty fast in blood pressure.
Cut Back on Sodium
People have heard about the connection between sodium and higher blood pressure for quite some time. Simply changing a few practices may help. While sodium may be found in things other than salt, salt is the easiest to identify. If they are adding it, adding less may help. There are also many salt substitutes available. It may take a little getting accustomed to, but it is well worth it. A few small changes in the use of salt may show big results.
A Little May Go a Long Way
I have had times in which I have had some higher blood pressure. For me, a few changes have made some big differences. I enjoy eating popcorn, so after changing from regular salt to light salt, I saw a significant drop in my numbers. When I combined that with a couple of other practices, I was really pleased with the outcome. When I make a point to watch and get decent rest and exercise, my blood pressure will consistently be around 115 over 70. I can tell a lot of difference when it stays there. If you have blood pressure problems, make some small changes and see what happens.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Redmond, Wash.