Hypertension, or high blood pressure, heightens your risk for heart attack and stroke. While prescription medications can lower your blood pressure, they can lead to unpleasant side effects. Because of this, your physician in Jackson, GA, may recommend the following simple strategies to lower your blood pressure.
Low Sodium Diet
Your doctor may recommend that you consume a low sodium diet to reduce your blood pressure. Avoiding processed deli meats, potato chips, and fast food will help prevent spikes in blood pressure and will also help prevent fluid retention.
A low sodium diet also helps promote optimal kidney function. Poor kidney function is a significant risk factor for hypertension and heart disease. Your physician in Jackson, GA, will recommend that you avoid adding extra salt to your food, and consume a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.
Weight Management
Being overweight is a modifiable risk factor for high blood pressure. Simply losing a few pounds will help modestly lower your blood pressure. More significant weight loss may lower your blood pressure to where your doctor may be able to discontinue your anti-hypertension medication.
Calorie restriction and a regular exercise program will help you lose weight, however, if you are struggling with weight loss, your doctor can recommend a nutritionist, who can help you make healthy food choices.
To learn more about which strategies can treat hypertension, call Internal Medicine of Griffin or visit the website at .
