What Is a Relationship Between Weight & Blood Pressure?

A report issued by the World Health Organization in 2002 found that people all over the world are experiencing chronic diseases and disabilities due to obesity. The report indicated that there is a close correlation between a person's weight and the likelihood that they will experience adverse affects from high blood pressure. There is no cure for this high blood pressure, or hypertension, but it can be controlled.

Function

• High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the blood passes through the arteries with too much force. The blood vessels become tight and constricted forcing the heart to work harder to move the blood through the body. A blood pressure measurement of 120/80 or lower is considered normal while anything at or over 140/90 is considered high.

Expert Insight

• According to the National Institutes of Health, reducing one's weight can help lower blood pressure. Research has shown that even losing 10 lbs. can reduce the blood pressure in overweight individuals. Losing weight may allow one individual to control hypertension while helping someone else reduce the amount of medication they need to control their blood pressure.

Waist Circumference

• The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute reports that the location of stored fat in your body is also important. Too much body fat in the stomach area can be a predictor of weight-related health problems. It is recommended that, on average, a woman should have a waist measurement of no more than 35 inches while a man's waist should measure no more than 40 inches.

Prevention/Solution

• Changing one's behavior may be necessary in order to lost weight and control high blood pressure. According to LifeClinic.com, it's important to set attainable short-term goals. Know what situations or scenarios in life can trigger poor life choices such as improper eating, lack of physical activity, or alcohol consumption. Reward yourself when a goal has been achieved.

Losing Weight

• Losing weight can be an important factor in controlling high blood pressure. However, it is essential that weight loss be done slowly and appropriately by eating foods low in calories and fats, limiting the amount of food consumed in one sitting, and choosing foods high in starch and fiber. It is also important for one to be physically active.