High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure affects 80 million people in North America.  Even though it's the most common cardiovascular disease it's called the silent killer.  Many people are completely unaware that they have it and it can cause significant damage without producing any symptoms.  (This is just like subluxation.) It is linked to a higher risk of heart attack, kidney damage, and stroke.

Many factors increase your risk of high blood pressure.  Smoking, lack of exercise, being overweight, and eating a lot of salt and fat can all raise blood pressure.  But so can age, race, and genetics.  So be sure to have your blood pressure checked at least annually but much more often if you are in a high risk category. 

Here's a few more ideas on things you can do to reduce your risk.  Eat 1500 milligrams or less of sodium per day.  Avoid packaged, prepared foods that are often high in fat and sodium.  Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables raw or only lightly cooked.  Eat foods high in potassium such as bananas and tofu to help balance your sodium intake.  Choose low-fat dairy products and limit meat to two meals per day with smaller servings than is common in America. 

Get more exercise.  Cardiovascular exercise of at least 30 minutes three times per week helps a lot.  Weight lifting is also very helpful in balancing appetite and blood sugar.   Take a fish oil supplement high in omega 3 fatty acids.  Not only does this appear to help blood pressure but it has numerous benefits for many organs and tissues including your brain. 

Be proactive, don't wait until you have been diagnosed.  If you notice, many of the suggestions I have given are simply good healthy living.  Make a decision to improve your diet and lifestyle today.  Even 1 or 2 steps can be helpful.  Think in terms of your next right step so you are not overwhelmed by trying to change everything all at once.  Best wishes for a healthier life!