How to Safely Reduce Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can be a silent killer, increasing your chances of heart attack and stroke. Prescription drugs are available to lower and control high blood pressure. There are risks associated with prescription drugs. The Mayo Clinic offers suggestions on ways to safely reduce blood pressure. Always consult with your doctor on the appropriate way to control your high blood pressure.

Instructions

• 1

  Consult with your physician to determine the safest blood pressure medication for your situation.

• 2

  Exercise 30 minutes each day or participate in a daily physical activity.

• 3

  Lose weight if you are overweight. Losing just 5 lb. can bring down blood pressure, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• 4

  Get rid of the salt shaker. Limiting your daily intake of sodium to 1,500 mg can reduce blood pressure, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pay attention to the sodium content in processed foods you purchase and make wise low-sodium choices.

• 5

  Limit alcohol consumption to two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women.

• 6

  Follow the DASH diet, recommended by the Mayo Clinic. The DASH diet promotes eating fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy foods, whole grains and plenty of potassium. For more information on the diet, check the link in Resources.

• 7

  Stop smoking. Smoking contributes to hardening of the arteries and damages the walls of blood vessels.

• 8

  Get plenty of sleep.