(Bismark Tribune) — Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood against the walls of arteries. Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers: systolic (top number) over diastolic (bottom number).
The systolic number represents the pressure when the heart beats and the diastolic number is the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats. Without blood pressure, blood would not be able to circulate, and the cells of our body would be deprived of the oxygen and nutrients required for survival.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, can interfere with circulation, so it is important to keep your blood pressure within a healthy range.
According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood pressure for adults 18 years of age and older is below 120/80. A systolic reading of 120-139 and/or a diastolic reading of 80-89 is considered pre-hypertension. High blood pressure is classified as a systolic reading of 140 or higher and/or a diastolic reading greater than or equal to 90.
About 70 million people in the United States have pre-hypertension. Studies conclude that pre-hypertension increases the risk of developing high blood pressure.
Both pre-hypertension and high blood pressure increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and heart failure. Prevention efforts must start early, since pre-hypertension also is a significant issue in the young due to the increased prevalence of overweight children.
There are no symptoms of pre-hypertension, but there are risk factors. You may be at risk if you have a family history of high blood pressure, are overweight, do not exercise, smoke or consume too much alcohol or foods high in sodium. The only way to determine whether or not you have pre-hypertension is to have your blood pressure measured. If you have been told that you have pre-hypertension, start making lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure.
Follow a diet that helps reduce blood pressure and control weight. One such diet is the DASH diet (dietary approaches to stop hypertension). Consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods high in cholesterol and saturated and trans-fats, which increase blood cholesterol levels.
Eat more whole grains, which are full of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Reduce sodium intake, and use herbs and spices to season your food. Choose lean sources of protein such as fish and skinless chicken and fat-free or low fat dairy products. Reduce your intake of red meat, sweets and sugared beverages.
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What is “normal” blood pressure has changed over time. The current move is to strive for lower and lower pressures. While lower blood pressure, within reason, is a good thing, one has to wonder about the motivation behind this “pre-hypertension” focus. Could it be that 70 million person market that just lies waiting for the next “pre-hypertension” medication?
Natural, non-toxic, methods of healthy levels of blood pressure (less that 140/90) is the preferred method to long lasting good health!
All the best!!
Agreed! BIG PHARM is very invested in our nations illnesses and it’s present condition, where we don’t prevent some of our own chronic health problems by not ingaging in exercise or whole food nutrition, which is the best “health-care” money can buy in my opinion.
Just Do It! Take care of yourself as best you can.
I agree! Big money will be made off of “pre-hypertension”! Take charge of your health.
It seems that more and more doctors are pnittug their name to research that is questionable. I believe should any professional endorse a product they should disclose if they have received any type of compensation from the company or industry. Also, the disclosure should be at the top of the article and not small find print at the bottom of the article.Duane Leon