Hypertension

Risk factors for developing hypertension include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, advanced age and ethnicity. However, the most common reason for developing high blood pressure is the layers of fat and inflammation built up inside our blood vessels walls over time with damage to the blood vessel muscle cells. As the space inside the blood vessels gets more narrow, the heart then has to pump harder against resistance, hence the reason for increase in the blood pressure.

High blood pressure is defined by consistent elevated blood pressure levels. There are different stages of high blood pressure.

– Stage 1 Hypertension is when the blood pressure readings are consistently between 130-139/80-89

– Stage 2 Hypertension occurs when the readings are consistently over 140/90

Hypertension is sometimes called the “silent killer.” The disease process very often remains silent. It is, therefore, very important to get your blood pressure checked and screened for high blood pressure at least biannually.

Our bodies have the amazing ability, however, to reverse this disease process. This can be accomplished through a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle. Recommendations include a low fat diet, such as a plant based diet, reduction of alcohol intake, smoking cessation and increase in physical activity.

Your health care provider may also recommend adding hypertension prescription medication.

If you are currently taking medication for your high blood pressure treatment, you’ll need to make sure to stay on it. If you decide to completely transition to a plant based diet you may have a good chance in coming off your medication. You will need to work closely with your primary care doctor if you decide to go this route.

Otherwise, be sure to maintain your prescriptions and don’t run the risk of running out. Uncontrolled blood pressure can quickly jeopardize your health putting you at risk for heart attacks, kidney failure, stroke and heart failure which are the leading causes of death in the U.S.