High blood pressure can lead to serious complications such as heart attacks or strokes if left untreated for too long. However, there are some simple tips that can help you keep blood pressure from spiraling out of control during one of the craziest times of year.
Perhaps one of the most important tips to keep in mind during the holiday season is to try and stick to a healthy diet. Those with high blood pressure, in particular, should be conscious about what they are eating.
Have a healthy meal by filling up on lots of vegetables around the table this holiday season, and try to skip the sweets and treats. Beware of the dip in the vegetable platter, as you may easily end up eating more dip than vegetables if you’re not careful. At the dinner table, be sure to fill your plate as you don’t want to come away hungry and fill up with sugary desserts.
Those with high blood pressure should also think about their sodium consumption this time of year. Excess sodium in the bloodstream can pull water inside blood vessels and increase hypertension. Processed food contains high amounts of sodium, so try and limit intake as much as possible.
When celebrating the holidays, those trying to keep their blood pressure under control will also need to watch their alcohol intake. Christmas drinks can also be loaded with sugar; some may even have a salt rim, so be sure to pay attention to the ingredients in a drink if you have one. Dietary guidelines suggest
two drinks or less in a day for men and one or less for women.
Stress levels can be high during the holidays, so taking time for a little self-care is important. Stress-related hormones have been linked to an increased risk for high blood pressure, and stress can contribute to depression which has also been associated with high blood pressure.
“I think it’s important to set limits and to remember to take time for yourself,” said Dr. Angela L. Brown, director of the hypertension clinic at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. But, she warned, don’t respond by overeating or overindulging in alcohol, “because that really just compounds the problem.”
Studies have shown that cardiovascular problems rise after Thanksgiving and peak in the new year, so it is essential to take steps during this time to ensure healthy blood pressure.
Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure
By maintaining healthy blood pressure, you can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and help support overall heart health. Healthy Blood Pressure Support has been shown in human clinical studies to help support healthy blood pressure making it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their risk of hypertension. In addition, Healthy Blood Pressure Support also supports healthy cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.