It can be a challenge to remain focused and stay on top of your high blood pressure during the busiest time of year. The holidays bring with them some unique pressures; not only do you have so much to accomplish, but also, it’s hard to take care of yourself while juggling all the extra activities and tasks. But it is critical that we make sure our blood pressure remains under control over this period.
High blood pressure can lead to serious complications such as heart attacks or strokes if left untreated for too long. However, there are some simple tips that can help you keep blood pressure from spiraling out of control during one of the craziest times of year.
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Perhaps one of the most important tips to keep in mind during the holiday season is to try and stick to a healthy diet. Those with high blood pressure, in particular, should be conscious about what they are eating.
Have a healthy meal by filling up on lots of vegetables around the table this holiday season, and try to skip the sweets and treats. Beware of the dip in the vegetable platter, as you may easily end up eating more dip than vegetables if you’re not careful. At the dinner table, be sure to fill your plate as you don’t want to come away hungry and fill up with sugary desserts.
Those with high blood pressure should also think about their sodium consumption this time of year. Excess sodium in the bloodstream can pull water inside blood vessels and increase hypertension. Processed food contains high amounts of sodium, so try and limit intake as much as possible.
When celebrating the holidays, those trying to keep their blood pressure under control will also need to watch their alcohol intake. Christmas drinks can also be loaded with sugar; some may even have a salt rim, so be sure to pay attention to the ingredients in a drink if you have one. Dietary guidelines suggest
two drinks or less in a day for men and one or less for women.
Stress levels can be high during the holidays, so taking time for a little self-care is important. Stress-related hormones have been linked to an increased risk for high blood pressure, and stress can contribute to depression which has also been associated with high blood pressure.
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“I think it’s important to set limits and to remember to take time for yourself,” said Dr. Angela L. Brown, director of the hypertension clinic at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. But, she warned, don’t respond by overeating or overindulging in alcohol, “because that really just compounds the problem.”
Studies have shown that cardiovascular problems rise after Thanksgiving and peak in the new year, so it is essential to take steps during this time to ensure healthy blood pressure.
Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure
By maintaining healthy blood pressure, you can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and help support overall heart health. Healthy Blood Pressure Support has been shown in human clinical studies to help support healthy blood pressure making it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their risk of hypertension. In addition, Healthy Blood Pressure Support also supports healthy cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.
Sarah began her interest in nutritional healing at an early age. After going through health problems and becoming frustrated with the conventional ways doctors wanted to treat her illness (which were not working), she took it upon herself to find alternative treatments. This led her to revolutionize her own diet to help her get healthier and tackle her health problems. She began treating her illness by living a more balanced lifestyle through healthy food choices, exercise and other alternative medicine such as meditation. This total positive lifestyle change led her to earn a diploma in Nutritional Therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London, England. Today, Sarah enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press. Also, passionate about following her dreams in life, Sarah moved to France and lived in Paris for over 5 years where she earned a certification in beadwork and embroidery from Lesage (an atelier owned by Chanel). She then went on to be a familiar face sitting front row and reporting from Paris Fashion Week. Sarah continues to practice some of the cultural ways of life she learned while in Europe. They enjoy their food, and take the time to relax and enjoy many of life’s little moments. These are life lessons she is glad to have brought back home with her.
