Question

(1) In regards to diet, what are a few things that you know could raise an individual's blood pressure? (2) What are some lifestyle changes that you know of that would aid in the reduction of blood pressure? (3) Do you have a family history of high BP (hypertension)? If so, have you considered any lifestyle changes to mitigate this factor? IF you don't know or don't have a family history, what would be the risk of not knowing if you have a family history. (4) Have you implemented any changes in to your lifestyle to reduce your BP? If so what were they and how did they go? (perhaps you will find new ideas from other classmates)

Answer 1

1.Some of the foods which can raise blood pressure are

• Increased sodium intake in diet (excess salt in food ,packed preserved foods ,pickles)
• Sea foods generally contains high sodium levels
• Beverages, soft drinks
• Certain herbal supplements can increase the blood pressure
• Refined or white sugar
• Decreased fluid intake

2.Some of the lifestyle changes that can aid in reducing the blood pressure are

• A daily brisk walk atleast half an hour a day
• A healthy diet high in vegetables, fruits, pulses,grains,sprouts
• Avoiding alcohol and smoking
• Stress free life
• Relaxation from the work by taking off
• Weight reduction in case of over weight
• Avoiding tinned and preserved food items
• Avoiding foods containing very high sodium level

3.It is very important to know the family history of blood pressure because of its genetic passage ,when one has a low quality lifestyle they put themselves at a greater risk for high blood pressure or other cardiovascular diseases. As soon as one knows that they are hypertensive should implement the above lifestyle changes, if they are risk should start a healthy lifestyle practices .

4.One of the best and most prevalent changes done is

• Concentration on a healthy diet
• Adequate exercise and aviding sedentary lifestyle