Lifestyle Changes and High Blood Pressure

People with high blood pressure often need medication to help control their blood pressure. However, there are a number of lifestyle changes they can make to decrease their blood pressure.

To help reduce your blood pressure, try the following:

• Eat a well-balanced diet that includes a number of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean sources of protein.
• Maintain a healthy weight. This means losing weight if you are overweight. Even a small decrease in weight can produce big drops in blood pressure.
• Exercise on a regular basis. Exercise can reduce your blood pressure and can help keep you at a healthy weight.
• Drink alcohol only in moderation, as alcohol can raise blood pressure.
• If you don't smoke, don't start. If you smoke, quit. Your doctor can help you find a way to stop smoking.
• Reduce stress in your life and also learn ways to effectively manage stress.