How to Lower High Blood Pressure Without Medication

Many people have high blood pressure, particularly as they grow older. While medication is an obvious solution, you actually can lower your blood pressure without it. Here are a few common sense ideas that will work to lower your blood pressure.

Instructions

• 1

  Reduce your salt intake. Table salt is a bad idea, as are high-sodium content processed foods and snacks. You can always use a salt substitute to get that salty flavor.

• 2

  Avoid caffeine. The caffeine stimulant increases your heart rate, as well as your blood pressure. You can find decaffeinated coffee, tea and soft drinks.

• 3

  Stop smoking. Cigarette smoke is a stimulant and can raise your blood pressure. There are also other unhealthy consequences of smoking, such as the tar and nicotine.

• 4

  Lose weight. Your heart has an easier time beating when you shed unwanted pounds.

• 5

  Beware of drugs and alcohol. These stimulants are bad for your blood pressure, because they allow your body to hold onto sodium.

• 6

  Handle your stress well and get plenty of rest and exercise. This allows your body to work correctly and keep your blood pressure in check.

• 7

  Practice slow, even breathing until it becomes a habit. Get plenty of sunlight in your day. You may be surprised at how much these two things help lower your blood pressure.