Blood pressure is a crucial indicator of overall health, as it measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps. When blood pressure is too high, it can put significant strain on the heart and other organs, increasing the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
However, when blood pressure is within a healthy range, it indicates good cardiovascular health and a reduced risk of these complications.
Blood pressure is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and is expressed as two numbers, with the systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart beats) listed first and the diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart is at rest) listed second. A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mm Hg, while readings of 140/90 mm Hg or higher are considered high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
People with high blood pressure may not experience symptoms initially, which is why it’s important to have blood pressure checked regularly, especially as we age. You can keep your blood pressure Monitored with our Omron® Digital Blood Pressure Monitoring Unit (1/EA)
Healthy blood pressure is essential for maintaining good cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Here are some tips for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese puts additional strain on the heart and can contribute to high blood pressure. Aim for a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.
- Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help to improve cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, most days of the week.
- Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help to maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Limit your intake of sodium, processed foods, and saturated and trans fats.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure and contribute to other health problems. Men should limit alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day, while women should have no more than one drink per day.
- Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease and can contribute to high blood pressure. Quitting smoking can help to improve cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and contribute to other health problems. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time outdoors.
By making these lifestyle changes, individuals can help to maintain healthy blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of serious health complications. Additionally, it’s important to have blood pressure checked regularly by a healthcare provider to ensure that levels are within a healthy range.