Heart disease is the leading cause of death for American Indians and Alaska Natives today. Knowing your blood pressure can help you prevent heart disease. High blood pressure can cause stroke, heart attack, kidney disease, and blindness. You can have high blood pressure and not even know it.
Your Blood Pressure
Know Your Blood Pressure: Less than 120/80
is best. 140/90 or more is high blood pressure.
Tips to lower your blood pressure:
Watch your weight and stay active
Loose weight by eating less and being physically active. Walking is good
for all ages even if you don't need to lose weight. Start slowly. Work up
to at least 30 minutes each day.
Eat healthy
Lower Your Blood Pressure Naturally
Use the food label to choose foods lower in sodium. Spice your food with
paprika, pepper, lemon, onion, and garlic. Try not to add salt to your food
at the table.
Choose a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, grain products, and low-fat dairy
products.
Keep In Mind:
Drinking alcohol may raise your blood pressure.
If you have high blood pressure, you may also need to take medicine.
Go to your doctor or local health clinic. Have your blood pressure checked at least once a year. Check it more often if you have high blood pressure. Further reading available on high blood pressure.