It is easy to dismiss High Blood Pressure as one of those normal conditions that everyone gets as a consequence of aging. Unfortunately, although it is common, it is far from normal. In Australia over 35% of us have it, which means a Blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or over. It is also known as hypertension, and is the number one risk factor for death. From conditions such as stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney failure, blood clots, embolic aneurysm.

The first number 140mmHg represents the systolic pressure; which is the maximum pressure exerted on your artery walls during ventricular contraction. The second number 90mmHg is the diastolic pressure which is the resting pressure on the artery wall between heart contractions. The ideal blood pressure is 120/80 or lower. The tricky thing is you often don’t know you have high BP until you have it checked as it can be asymptomatic, until it causes some structural damage. So be aware and be checked by your health professional.

Factors causing hypertension or high blood pressure are many and sometimes unknown, narrowing of blood vessels or hardening of artery walls due to fatty plaque. Increased resistance of small vessels in the tissues hormonal imbalance especially the adrenal hormones, excess weight, kidney disease, emotional factors.

There are ways to help lower Blood pressure. A diet low in salt (sodium) and rich in plant foods (vegan or vegetarian) and low in saturated fats helps keep our blood healthy and flexible. Lowering Blood pressure reduces plaque which blocks vessels. Things that can help, whole foods and a good diet-low fat, low salt, more fruit & vegetables, lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, do more exercise (walk 10,000) steps per day, drink more water 6-10 cups per day, relax more, sleep, meditation, prayer and monitor your Blood pressure regularly. Review medication with your Doctor as prescribed.

Natural therapies that may help, odourless Kyolic garlic capsules may help to stabilize or lower Blood pressure, pay attention to maintaining general health. People who are vegan or vegetarian live significantly longer (blue zone) and enjoy better health. A diet low in sodium and rich in natural plant foods such as whole grains, flaxseeds, beetroot (juice & leaves) rhubarb, swiss chard, basil, garlic and other nitrate rich vegetables may be helpful.