High Blood Pressure
Having high blood pressure increases the risk of developing heart disease and stroke. It is possible for many people to lower their blood pressure by making healthy changes to their diet and lifestyle.
High blood pressure or hypertension occurs when blood vessels harden leading to a build up of pressure. The heart has to work hard to pump blood around the body against this extra pressure. Many people with high blood pressure have no symptoms so it is important to have blood pressure checked regularly.
Having high blood pressure increases the risk of developing heart disease and stroke. It can also lead problems to other parts of the body such as the eyes and kidneys.
Some healthy lifestyle habits that may help to reduce blood pressure include:
- eating less salt (sodium)
- drinking less alcohol
- keeping weight healthy
- not smoking
Eating less salt
Many Australians eat more salt than they need. Most of the salt eaten is not salt added to food in the home, but salt found in processed and packaged foods. The following tips will help you to eat less salt:
- eat fresh food instead of processed food when you can
- choose no added salt, salt reduced or low salt canned foods, bread and margarine
- look for processed foods with less 'sodium' level in the nutrition information panel - see food labelling for further information.
- eat cold roast meat or poultry in sandwiches instead of processed luncheon meats
- use small amounts of salty sauces
- add herbs and spices to food in place of salt
An
Accredited Practising Dietitian
can provide individual expert advice on healthy lifestyle habits to help lower blood pressure.
