Lifestyle Choices Can Rein in High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition, and the risk for it rises with age. It can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, heart failure, and other problems.

"Nearly one in three adults has high blood pressure, but many people don’t realize they have it," says Marc E. Colmer, M.D., director of Non-Invasive Cardiology and of Cardiac Rehabilitation at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. "That’s one of the reasons it’s important to see a physician for regular check-ups."

Now the good news: Not only can healthy habits cut the risk of developing hypertension, but they also can help people with this condition to keep it under control.

If you have hypertension, take this advice to heart:

• Manage your weight. Losing just 10 pounds can reduce blood pressure in overweight people with hypertension.
• Exercise regularly. Thirty minutes of moderate exercise — such as brisk walking — on most, if not all, days is one of the best ways to manage hypertension.
• Limit alcohol. If you drink, do so only in moderation.
• Restrict sodium intake. Consume no more than 1,500 milligrams of sodium a day.
• Follow a hearthealthy diet. Cut back on total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol.
• If you smoke, quit. Smoking significantly raises blood pressure. If your doctor prescribes medication for you, take it exactly as directed. But healthy habits are still important. They may help your medicine work better.

"Keeping fit and maintaining a healthy lifestyle not only has a positive impact on your health in general, but also can prevent and reduce high blood pressure — thus reducing the risk for many other serious conditions," says Dr. Colmer. "That’s a goal worth pursuing."