Don't Let the Pressure Get to You

By: Barbara Herring | WSAV-TV
Published: February 21, 2008

» Comments | Post a Comment

Approximately one in every four American adults has high blood pressure. What can you do to control high blood pressure (or keep it from developing in the first place)? According to WebMD, plenty! WebMD suggests these simple lifestyle changes to help you maintain your blood pressure at its optimum level:

1) Travel light. Being overweight makes you two to six times more likely to develop high blood pressure -- so make it a priority to drop any extra pounds.

2) Move! Regular exercise can boost your metabolism, helping you lose weight faster.

3) Avoid salt. When you're cooking, don't use too much salt. When you sit down to eat, don't add salt directly to the food on your plate.

4) Embrace moderation. Alcohol can raise your blood pressure. If you do drink alcohol, do so in moderation -- no more than two drinks a day.