Starting hypertension treatment earlier and stopping drinking alcohol, say the experts

“Health health experts have been concerned about the risk of high blood pressure for decades,” said Jones. “What is new is increasing proof that the intensive lowering of systolic blood pressure for less than 130 or 120 mmHg reduces the risk of heart disease than the older standard of less than 140 mmHg,” he said.

Alcohol can contribute to high blood pressure

The updated guidelines also suggest that avoiding alcohol is ideal – as research shows that even small amounts of alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure. According to the research cited in directives, completely avoiding alcohol leads to the lowest risk of high blood pressure, while the reduction in alcohol intake of at least half can cause normal blood pressure levels.

“The guidelines have long recommended one drink per day for women, and no more than two glasses per day for men,” explains Luke Laffin, MD, co-director of the Center for Herd-Ordorders of the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. “However, current directives emphasize that any The degree of alcohol consumption can increase blood pressure, “said Dr. Laffin, who has not been involved in writing new recommendations.

“We want the public to know the evidence so that informed decisions can be made,” adds Jones.

Narrower surveillance of blood pressure during pregnancy

“Highter blood pressure during pregnancy can have lasting effects on mother’s health, including an increased risk of blood pressure and future cardiovascular conditions.

Healthy lifestyles can make a big difference for blood pressure

The guidelines always highlight the importance of healthy lifestyles of the heart, which have proven to be effective in preventing and treating high blood pressure.

“”The lifestyle has always been essential for the treatment of hypertension, “explains Laffin.” The treatment is in fact 70% of modification of lifestyle, 30% of drugs. Most people with high blood pressure need medication, but a change in lifestyle is necessary in all patients. »»

• Eat less than 2,300 milligrams (MG) of sodium per day, and aim for an ideal limit of 1,500 mg per day.
• Abandon alcohol Or reduce the contribution to no more than two glasses per day for men and no more than one glass per day for women.
• Practice stress management techniques Like yoga, meditation or breathing.
• Move your body To obtain 75 to 150 minutes of moderate in vigorous intensity exercise per week. Try to incorporate at least two resistance or strength training sessions.
• Follow a healthy diet of the heart, Like the dash style food plan which is designed to reduce high blood pressure and focuses on the consumption of many fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, lean and low -fat protein.
• Maintain or work towards healthy body weight, In order to lose at least 5% of the total body weight in overweight or who have obesity.
• Monitor your blood pressure at home, This can help follow progress and adapt care.

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