What to Do When You Have High Blood Pressure – 3 Misconceptions You Should Know

When you have high BP, it’s important you know what to do to take care of your health. The reality is, you have a lot of control over your blood pressure levels. Simple lifestyle changes and healthy eating choices may help to lower high blood pressure.

Still, with so much information available online about high BP and what to do about it, it can be challenging to separate hard science from hearsay. Here are some common misconceptions about what you should do if you have high blood pressure that everyone should be aware of.

1. Lowering My Calorie Intake Will Help Me Lower My Blood Pressure

This is both true and not true — maintaining a healthy weight is important for cardiovascular health but healthy eating for blood pressure isn’t as simple as calorie counting. If you simply choose low-calorie foods, you could be missing critical heart-healthy, high-calorie foods such as avocados, olive oil and raw nuts.

When it comes to your diet, focus on fresh, nutrient-rich foods to support your heart such as fruits and veggies, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, and low-fat dairy products. You can talk to your doctor about weight loss recommendations.

2. I Should Visit the Doctor If I Have Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

This is one of the most dangerous misconceptions surrounding high blood pressure. Unlike many other chronic conditions, this one doesn’t necessarily cause any symptoms.

What you should do is see your doctor regularly so you always know what your blood pressure is. You may have symptoms if you have problems with very high blood pressure — these can include fatigue, headaches, chest pain and blood in the urine. But, many suffer from high BP for years and have no idea they have a health problem.

3. Drinking Red Wine Will Lower My Blood Pressure

This misconception stems from the fact that red wine contains antioxidants. Diets that are high in antioxidant-rich foods are connected with cardiovascular health and may even reduce hypertension. The truth is, red wine is just one source of antioxidants. Leafy greens, berries, citrus, almonds and dozens of other incredibly healthy foods are great sources of these compounds, as well as other vitamins and minerals!

Drinking red wine with the belief that you’re doing your heart a favor isn’t a good idea. Heavy and regular alcohol consumption can actually increase your blood pressure.

120/Life is made with natural foods that have been shown to be effective in reducing blood pressure such as red beets, hibiscus and red berries. Drinking it every day for as little as two weeks can help to promote normal blood pressure, giving you confidence that you’re taking positive steps for your well-being.

High blood pressure is serious. Everything you can do to keep your levels normal and to support your heart can help you stay healthy long into your golden years. Eat well, check your blood pressure regularly and make sure you are following medically recommended guidelines when it comes to hypertension.