Is it too difficult to prevent hypertension? Avoid these 6 incentives, blood pressure will be obediently 'obedient'
High blood pressure is common, and even many young people suffer from high blood pressure. High blood pressure can damage blood vessels and body organs, leading to many health problems, such as heart disease. Understanding the risk factors for high blood pressure is important for lowering blood pressure.
- Obesity
Obesity is one of the common risk factors for hypertension. The heavier you are, the more blood flow you need to supply your cells and tissues with oxygen and nutrients. As the amount of blood circulating in the blood vessels increases, the pressure within the arteries also increases. Additionally, obesity can lead to heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, arthritis, chronic kidney disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and many others. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can reduce your risk of high blood pressure.
- Lack of adequate exercise
A sedentary lifestyle that doesn't get enough exercise can put you at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure. Exercise increases blood flow in the body's arteries, which in turn leads to the release of natural hormones and cytokines that help relax blood vessels and ultimately lower blood pressure. Physical activity is a healthy lifestyle, and 30 minutes of exercise a day may help prevent high blood pressure.
- Too much pressure
Although stress may not directly cause high blood pressure, it can lead to repeated increases in blood pressure that can eventually lead to high blood pressure. Hormones released by the body under stress can strain the heart muscle, which increases the heart rate and constricts blood vessels, potentially leading to high blood pressure. Stress also increases the risk of heart disease, chest pain, or an irregular heartbeat.
- High salt intake
Too much salt in the diet is another common risk factor for high blood pressure. Excess sodium causes the body to hold more fluids and constricts arteries, both of which increase blood pressure. Reducing the intake of salt in the diet can effectively reduce high blood pressure levels.
- Low potassium intake
Too little potassium in the diet can also put you at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure. Potassium is an important mineral that helps balance sodium levels in cells, and low potassium intake can lead to excess sodium accumulation in the blood, which can lead to high blood pressure. In addition, potassium causes arterial smooth muscle cells to relax, thereby lowering blood pressure. Increased potassium intake and a low-sodium diet play an important role in maintaining normal blood pressure levels.
- Vitamin D deficiency
Vitamin D improves blood circulation throughout the body, which is essential for the heart to function properly. A lack of vitamin D also increases the risk of high blood pressure. Vitamin D inhibits an enzymatic process that constricts arteries and leads to high blood pressure.
Certain chronic diseases may also increase the risk of high blood pressure. Because high blood pressure is often asymptomatic, it is important to measure your blood pressure regularly. Stabilizing and lowering blood pressure requires lifestyle changes, weight loss, and medication.