A blood pressure level over 140 (systolic) /90 (diastolic) mmHg is considered high blood pressure, notes the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Diastolic blood pressure refers to the power of the blood circulating in the arteries when the heart is relaxed between beats. A higher than normal diastolic blood pressure increases the risk for kidney failure, heart attacks, and strokes.
High-Fat Diet
The DASH study, by Drs. Lawrence J. Appel and Thomas J. Moore, et al, conducted by the DASH Collaborative Research Group, reports that a high-fat diet increases diastolic blood pressure. As the amount of high-fat foods such as French fries, hamburgers, bacon, chips and dips, ice cream and hot dogs increases in the diet so does the measurement of diastolic blood pressure. Reducing intake of saturated fat and total fat decreases blood pressure levels.
Too Much Salt in Food
The DASH study also found that high sodium intake raises diastolic and overall blood pressure. Limiting consumption of salty foods such as commercial soups, cold cuts and chips will help to control the diastolic blood pressure level. Avoiding fast foods will greatly help to reduce sodium levels in the body.
Obesity
Obesity was also found to raise diastolic pressure levels in the DASH study. Gaining weight is not only detrimental to overall health, but strongly impacts blood pressure levels. Adding more fruits and vegetables to the diet and limiting meat intake will help work to solve the problem of obesity.
Alcohol
Alcohol intake is also known to increase diastolic blood pressure levels. The DASH study found that eliminating or limiting alcohol from the diet will help to lower blood pressure and also greatly improve overall health.
Smoking Cigarettes
Smoking cigarettes sends nicotine into the bloodstream. This toxin temporarily tightens blood vessels and increases diastolic and systolic blood pressure, notes FamilyDoctor. Quitting smoking keeps blood pressure more stable and improves overall health.
Stress
Stress is also believed to increase diastolic blood pressure levels, notes FamilyDoctor. Thus utilizing stress reduction strategies such as participating in yoga, meditation, biofeedback and exercise will help lower blood pressure. An ongoing effort to maintain a calm life via not overreacting to stress at work, relationships, or family issues will also help maintain normal blood pressure.
