Assuming you don't have a genetic predisposition for high blood pressure it's all about diet and exercise. I was always fit up until my early and mid fifties when I let myself go to hell. I had a annual physical in 2007 and my BP was 156/94, and was a good 60 lbs. overweight. After some discussion with my doctor I was given three months to get the weight and BP going in the right direction or go on medication. I began exercisng, all cardio on a elliptical to begin with. I cut out all fast food, 100%. Cut out all junk food, candy, cake, ice cream, chips, etc. Three months later I had dropped forty pounds and my BP had dropped to 130/84. I have continued a proper diet and a solid exercise program since. My weight is proportional to my height, and my last BP was 118/78. I do have an unrelated heart disease diagnosed last summer. Bottom line, eat healthy and exercise.
My mom use to have high blood pressure and her dietician made two changes...she removed the salt from the eating habits and added regular long walks. Her blood pressure normalize within two months.
Once again, if you know you have high blood pressure and you have not seen a doctor...go see your doctor. Do more physical activity or sports...healthy eating and you'll do more good things for your blood beyond just controlling your blood pressure.
Hi wrbtrader,
can you provide more details about how your mom went about removing salt from her diet and her regular long walks? Did you know what was her blood pressure reading before she took these steps? Why didn't she go on the medication route?
Thanks.
And if you do have a genetic predisposition, then eat less salt. This in addition to the healthy dietary regimen and exercise, as noted by the good Cap'n.Assuming you don't have a genetic predisposition for high blood pressure it's all about diet and exercise.
I must preface all comments by stating that what worked for me may not work for anyone else. Age, actual physical condition, previous experience with exercise, all come into play.Hi CaptainObvious,
can you provide more details regarding your exercise regime?
Thanks.
Good luck. It's not that hard once you commit.