High blood pressure is a condition that has no known cause and it can take effect on the body without you even knowing it. For that reason, it has been coined as "the silent killer." Known medically as "hypertension," having high blood pressure can increase your risks of heart failure, kidney failure, heart attacks and strokes. Alternative treatments can be utilized in place of conventional drugs that often come with unwanted side effects.
Smoking Cessation
Smoking can have a major impact on your lungs. It can increase your risk for cancer and it can lead to congestive obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If that is not bad enough, it can also damage blood vessels and increase your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure and you smoke, quit. If you do not smoke and have high blood pressure, then don't start.
Relaxation
Stress does not cause high blood pressure or any other debilitating disease for that matter. But it does make it harder to cope with high blood pressure. To release your tension and become more calm, partake in relaxation activities like listening to peaceful music, getting a massage, or performing mind/body exercises like yoga, tai-chi and meditative breathing.
Exercise
Exercise offers benefits to the whole body. It can improve mobility, build muscle tone, increase metabolism and improve brain function. But there is one other thing it can also do for you. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, physical activity can lower high blood pressure and also reduce your risks for other health related problems. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity a day like walking, bowling, gardening, biking and house cleaning.
Weight Reduction
Having excess weight on your body can have a negative impact on your blood pressure. According to the Mayo Clinic, you can lower your blood pressure by losing just 5 lbs. To lose 5 lbs. in five weeks, decrease your daily total by 500 calories. It takes 3500 calories to burn 1 lb. of fat, so if you maintained a daily 500 calorie deficit, you can lose 1 lb. a week for five weeks.
Diet
The DASH diet is a plan that stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. Follow this plan by reducing your intake of saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium, and having your diet consist mainly of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products and whole grains.
Alcohol
Alcohol can have a major impact on your liver if it is consumed in excessive amounts. It can also have an impact on your blood pressure. If you are going to drink, keep it to no more than one to two beverages a day.
