Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure (HBP), is a chronic medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a serious health concern that can cause several complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Unfortunately, in South Africa, hypertension has been on the rise, especially in young people, making it a significant public health issue.

Hypertension has an effect on everyone – regardless of age, race, or gender.  Various factors increase the risk of developing the condition, like having a family history of hypertension, being overweight, living an inactive lifestyle, consuming a high-sodium (salt) diet, smoking, trauma, and high stress levels. High blood pressure can also present with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease.

Here are some key things you can do to maintain a healthy blood pressure:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight, or obese, puts added pressure on your heart and blood vessels. Maintain your ideal weight with regular exercise and a healthy diet.
  • Reducing sodium intake: Sodium, a mineral found in salt, can cause the body to retain fluid, increasing blood pressure.
  • Eating a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help prevent high blood pressure and maintain overall good health.
  • Quitting smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of developing hypertension, among other health issues.

In addition to watching your lifestyle choices, you should monitor your blood pressure at least twice a year (when you visit a doctor or do health screening at the workplace or clinic). If you have an elevated blood pressure, you should consult a doctor as more regular monitoring and medical treatment might be needed to get it under control. Prescription medication could include diuretics (reduce water retention), ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and beta-blockers.

Let us be proactive and set an example for the next generation by promoting healthier lifestyles and taking care of our overall wellbeing. Reach out to a health coach, dietician, or biokineticist at LifeAssist for professional health advice, guidance, and practical solutions that can help you and/or a member of your household to control blood pressure.