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  |  General Health  |  Diseases and conditions  |  How to keep your blood pressure down
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How to keep your blood pressure down

continued from page 7
High blood pressure: prevention
Because we don't know the cause of most cases of high blood pressure, it's hard to say how to prevent it. However, diet and lifestyle changes can be essential. You should consider these tips:
  • Stop smoking
  • Increase the amount of exercise you get
  • Lose weight
  • Reduce your caffeine intake
  • Reduce alcohol consumption: You shouldn't drink more than two units of alcohol each day if you want to lower your blood pressure
  • Reduce stress: when you relax, your heart rate slows down, which lowers the amount of oxygen your body tissues need
  • Reduce your sodium intake: salt can cause fluid retention, so don't add salt to foods. Limit salt intake to no more than a teaspoon a day
  • Increase your potassium and calcium intake: an analysis of several studies indicates that both potassium and calcium can reduce blood pressure. Bananas are high in potassium, and low-fat and non-fat dairy products and green, leafy vegetables are high in calcium.
  • Increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables: avoid eating high-fat, high-cholesterol foods.


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    Created: 07/03/2002  Updated: 10/10/2007

    This iVillage Health service area is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. If you are concerned about your health or that of a child, please consult your family's health provider immediately and do not wait for a response from our professionals. For the full Disclaimer, click here.
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