Along with temperature and pulse, blood
pressure has long been referred to as one of the body’s
major “vital” signs. Indeed it is! Blood pressure
speaks volumes about the state of a person’s health.
What is Blood Pressure?
- Normal healthy blood pressure is considered 120/80.
- The top number, systolic pressure, represents the peak
pressure generated in your arteries when your heart beats.
- The bottom number, diastolic pressure, indicates the pressure
when your heart is at rest between heart beats.
Five Highly Effective Ways to Support Healthy Blood Pressure
- Massage—You’ll like this one!
A weekly massage helps keep blood flowing smoothly through
the cardiovascular system, and it also helps you and your
vessels relax. Another effective tool for maintaining good
blood pressure is a long-handled bath brush with natural
bristles. Before getting in the tub or shower, dry brush
your body for 5 minutes to stimulate the circulation. It
keeps the skin super smooth, too.
- Exercise—You didn’t think
we’d forget about this one, did you? Yes, a brisk 30
minute walk works wonders for keeping blood pressure in check.
Breathe deeply down to the bottom of your lungs during the
walk for optimal benefit.
- No Tobacco—It’s gotta go.
Every time you want to light up, ask your partner for five
minutes of suggestion #1—tell him or her it’s
strictly for your health’s sake. How can she or he say no?
- Diet—First on the “Do” list
are lots of fruits and veggies for their high content of
blood pressure-balancing potassium and magnesium. High on
the “Don’t” list is salt because it causes
water retention and potassium depletion.
- Periodic Checks—Find out your blood
pressure numbers often and do what it takes to keep them
in the healthy range.
The Role of Supplements
Natural dietary supplements can play a beneficial part in
your diet and exercise program for maintaining healthy blood
pressure.
- Calcium—An
impressive study funded in part by the National Institute
of Health concluded that while a moderately low fat diet
with plenty of raw fruits and vegetables was very effective
for promoting healthy blood pressure, adding low fat dairy
products and/or calcium to the diet significantly increased
the benefits.
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