High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the long-term force of the blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may lead to heart disease and/or stroke. Most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms, but some may experience headaches, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds, but these don’t typically occur until blood pressure has reached a severe or life-threatening stage.1 

The condition tends to run in families. Age (people over 64), obesity, and not enough physical activity are also significant factors, as are smoking, excess sodium, too little potassium, consistent high levels of stress, sleep apnea, and chronic conditions such as kidney disease. 

A Healthy Diet

While medication may be indicated, in many cases high blood pressure can be controlled and even prevented by maintaining a healthy diet. This means low in sodium and processed foods (characteristically high in sugar, fat, and sodium), and filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy, legumes, and lean protein sources such as chicken ad fish.