You know your age, your shoe size, and your parkrun PB. But do you know your blood pressure?
High blood pressure can be a silent risk: there are often no obvious symptoms, but over time it can increase the risk of serious health problems including stroke, heart disease, kidney disease and vascular dementia. The good news? Checking your numbers is quick, simple and painless.
Get checked
If you’re over 40 or have a family history of hypertension, you can get your blood pressure checked for free at your GP surgery or local pharmacy. You can also monitor it at home using a clinically validated device.
Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers: systolic pressure, when your heart pumps blood around your body, and diastolic pressure, when your heart relaxes between beats. So, a reading might look like 120/80mmHg. Ideal blood pressure is between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg.
Make a change
If your numbers are higher than that, don’t panic. Simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Essentially, it comes down to the basics. Exercise is crucial, because being active keeps your heart and blood vessels in shape, not just your biceps. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for your blood pressure, because if you’re overweight, your heart has to work harder to pump blood around your body. Poor sleep has also been linked with increased blood pressure, so aiming for at least seven hours a night is important. If you struggle to fall or stay asleep, limit your caffeine and alcohol intake, and put your phone to bed an hour before you turn in. And if you smoke? Get help to quit.
Last but not least, audit your weekly shop. Swap added salt for herbs, spices and seasonings like chilli, pepper, ginger, lemon or lime juice, and keep an eye out for hidden salt in ready-made foods. For bonus points, get some potassium-rich fruit and veg onto your plate. And for a hassle-free, everyday nutritional boost, Kwai Blood Pressure provides a blend of magnesium, potassium, iron and vitamins B6 and B12 to support normal blood pressure and heart muscle function, and help to reduce tiredness and fatigue. Simple.
Learn how Kwai Blood Pressure can support blood pressure, buy online and connect on Facebook and Instagram.
