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Hypertension Explained
Hypertension is an increase in blood pressure. Blood pressure will be greater than 140mm systolic /90mm diastolic.
Hypertension is symptomless so it is important to have regular checks by your doctor. This is particularly important if it runs in your family.
Hypertension can occur in cardiac disease, atherosclerosis, kidney disease and pregnancy.
How to reduce hypertension.
Lose weight
Reduce salt
Limit alcohol- high intakes of alcohol raise blood pressure
Reduce stress
Control blood sugars if you have diabetes
Hypertension and diet
If you have high blood pressure, avoid salty foods and minimise use of the salt shaker at the table. There is good scientific evidence that reducing the sodium in food from a 140mmol a day to 100 mmol a day will result in a fall in systolic blood pressure of 2mmHg from an average systolic blood pressure of 135mmHg. What does this mean.
It is recommended that the population aim for less than 6 grams of salt (equates to 2300mg of sodium) a day. One could consider this to be about 1 teaspoon of salt.
Most of the sodium eg salt is added in prepared foods. Much can done with restricting commerical sauces, dressings and pre-prepared food. Foods that are particularly high in sodium are Chinese and Japanese because of soy sauce, fish sauce etc, corned silverside, bacon, ham, salami, canned fish and meats, baked beans, sauces such as tomato sauce, stocks, seasonings such as lemon pepper, garlic salt etc, vegemite, bonox, marmite, packet soups, pickles, olives, salted nuts and potato chips and crisps, sea-salt, celery, garlic and vegetable salts.
What does hypertension do to the body?
The major effect of hypertension is that it places stress on the heart.
What influences hypertension?
Kidneys
Weight
Salt
Obesity
Obesity has a stronger correlation with hypertension than sodium. Aim to have a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight.
Remember that the greater the weight, often the greater the blood pressure. If you have diabetes, then control of blood pressure is even more important. Seek the help of a qualified dietitian if more information and knowledge is required.
When to treat hypertension?
Treat blood pressure or hypertension when you have a high normal- diastolic over 80mm. At this stage improved life style and diet can be very beneficial. Blood pressure is usually treated with medication when the diastolic pressure is greater than 100mm.
Who can help me with my hypertension?
It is imperative to consult your doctor and take medication if advised. In addition, a dietitian can help with weight control, low sodium diet plans and ongoing support. Often with improved diet and weight loss, medication is no longer needed
Added to site on : Tuesday, 28 December 2010