May Is National High Blood Pressure Education Month
In the United States, the month of May is a time to reflect and educate ourselves about the hazards of high blood pressure. The Center for Disease Control (CDC), a government health organization sponsored this month to raise awareness about the impact of high blood pressure on health.
If you’re pregnant, being aware of the damage high blood pressure can have on you is important. Preeclampsia or “toxemia” is a condition you could have if you are pregnant. It is marked by high blood pressure and accompanied with a high level of protein in your urine.
High blood pressure has negative effects on your body whether you’re pregnant or not. There are steps to take to reduce your high blood pressure through various lifestyle changes.
- Reduce your sodium (salt) intake. Most Americans consume more than twice the level of recommended sodium. According to the CDC, guidelines recommend up to 2,300mg of sodium per day for a healthy adult.
- Maintain a healthy diet. A heart-healthy diet includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
- Increase your physical activity through exercise and active habits.
- Maintain a health body weight to help lower your blood pressure.
- Manage your stress levels and sleep patterns.
- Stop smoking and using tobacco.
- Limit alcoholic beverages.
- Eat less meat and more plants.
- Eat dark chocolate instead of other sugary treats if you’re craving something sweet.
- If you’re pregnant, have your high blood pressure monitored closely.
Contact Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A. to schedule your high-risk obstetrics appointment today.
