Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a very real and very destructive problem in our society. It affects an average of seventy two million people in America alone.
It can lead to more serious health problems, and can limit you from participating in some of the activities that you have enjoyed in the past. However, if you are diagnosed with this problem, it is not too late to get it under control and reclaim your life.
This harmful problem is responsible for many deaths in the United States, if not the majority. There are many causes, some within our control, and some beyond it.
Some of these causes include stress, alcohol, smoking, having too much body fat, a lack of exercise, high cholesterol, insulin-resistance, too much sodium in your diet, and a lack of potassium, calcium, or magnesium in your diet. Stress is one of the most serious causes, since it often leads to smoking and alcohol use, and overeating.
While there are many different prescription drugs that you can take to control the problem, there are also some lifestyle changes that you can make to improve your condition. If these changes are made in advance, prescription drugs may be avoided.
Exercising is another very important factor, and helps us greatly to manage our stress levels. Even taking a fifteen minute walk a day can make a big difference.
Do not forget that the body needs nutrients. Nutrients come from food.
One of the easiest ways to control hypertension in your body is to adjust your diet, and begin eating much more healthfully. Consume a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, including vegetables, fruits, and legumes.
Decrease your sodium levels. Try to trade bad fats for good fats.
You can also try to eat less red meat, and more fish and poultry. A high fiber diet could be effective in preventing and treating many forms of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension.
In some cases, supplements can also help. Magnesium levels are shown to be consistently low in people suffering from this problem.
Potassium and calcium levels are often low as well. Diet alone may not be enough to reach the levels needed.
Some studies suggest relaxation methods that include mild physical activity with controlled breathing, such as yoga, are beneficial for people with this problem. Make sure that you are doing lots of deep breathing, and focusing on relaxing while you do this practice.
Believe it or not, even certain foods may be able to target this problem. Watermelon is being studied carefully, and found to help improve arterial function, and to lower blood pressure.
It may be a natural weapon which can be used for those with pre-hypertension, which can lead to cardiovascular disease. It contains something called L-arginine, which can also be taken as a dietary supplement.
However, in the supplement form, it can cause nausea, gastrointestinal tract discomfort, and diarrhea. These effects are rarely seen when consuming the actual fruit.
Plus, the fruit is delicious! You cannot discount the benefits of that alone.
According to some studies, watermelon is the richest edible natural source of L-citrulline, and it is also a good source of vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as fiber, potassium, and the antioxidant lycopene. It is quickly becoming a superfood.
L-citrulline is also available as a supplement. When eating the fruit, it is also rich in potassium, which may help to keep salt from raising your blood pressure.
Not only that, but it has a ninety-two percent water content, which is very good for your system as well. This of course makes sense, with its name.
The fruit's bright red color comes from lycopene, a powerful antioxidant also associated with heart health, healthy arteries, and blood flow. Of all fresh produce, watermelon contains the highest level of this compound.
Lycopene also may be able to help protect against many forms of cancer including prostate, breast, endometrial, lung, and colorectal. The antioxidants can help to strengthen your immune system, and can even help to relieve symptoms of asthma.
If you feel you may be suffering from high blood pressure, talk to your doctor right away about what you can actively do to stop the problem from becoming more severe. Try introducing watermelon into your diet right away!
Author Resource:-
Tommy Greene has worked in surgical equipment sales for the past 15 years. He has great advice and information on an Electrosurgical Unit.
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