Have You Checked Your Blood Pressure Lately?

According to the CDC, almost half of the U.S. adults (116 million) have stage 1 high blood pressure (hypertension). Further, only 24% of adults with hypertension have their blood pressure under control. Sadly, the latest research shows 1.3 million adolescents (ages 12 to 19) have elevated blood pressure. Known as the “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms, many Americans live with high blood pressure for years without knowing it. Subsequently, this causes your heart to work harder, your arteries to take a beating, and your chances of a stroke, heart attack, kidney problems, and blindness are greater.
Hypertension is defined as a blood pressure of 140/90 and above. Ideal blood pressure is less than 120/80. Stage 1 hypertension is blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89. If one or both numbers are high, you have high blood pressure. Rarely does high blood pressure present in a vacuum of no other health conditions. Most people with higher blood pressure will suffer from other chronic illnesses such as elevated cholesterol, being overweight, imbalanced blood sugar and insulin levels, and fatty liver disease.
Many people think their genetics causes high blood pressure; however, the latest research suggests that less than 1% of high blood pressure cases are the sole result of genetics. The truth is the exact causes of high blood pressure on an individual basis are hard to determine. Still, such behaviors of no exercise, too many cocktail lunches, smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, excess weight, and other common but shortsighted behaviors are the primary contributors to elevated blood pressure. While genetics may leave you pre-disposed to high blood pressure, the bottom line is that the body is not designed to have high blood pressure, and it indicates more complex imbalances in the body.
While physical activity is one of the most important steps in preventing and controlling high blood pressure, you cannot exercise your way out of a poor diet. Strive to develop a healthy eating plan that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, small amounts of animal protein, and healthy fats. It is equally important to eliminate or reduce white flours and sugar, processed foods, and trans fats to decrease your risk.
Hypertension is a silent condition that steals health and foreshadows serious cardiovascular disease that can steal life. You can prevent and control high blood pressure by taking action. A Functional Medicine approach can be incredibly effective in preventing high blood pressure and, in many cases, can eliminate high blood pressure by taking a whole-body individual approach. For further information about hypertension, please call Compassionate Healthcare Associates 661 295-7777.

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