How to Control Hypertension Naturally

Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Prescribed medications can lower your blood pressure; however, natural methods can help considerably more. Certain foods and chemicals can partially restrict the blood flow, therefore, creating stress on the heart. According to the Colorado State University, hypertension begins at 140/90. It is important to take your blood pressure often to know your exact numbers in certain situations such as high stress, anger and at rest.

Instructions

• 1

  Consume a low-fat and low-sodium diet. Fat contributes to clogged arteries, which make the heart work harder. Salt controls the level of fluids in your body. Thus, using extra salt or consuming food loaded with it can cause your sodium levels to become abnormally high, producing hypertension. An abnormal sodium level is above 145 milliequivalents per liter. At that level, a risk of dehydration and swollen legs or feet may occur.

• 2

  Increase potassium-rich foods. It is important to eat foods high in potassium while reducing the amount of sodium intake. This method adjusts the water levels in the body to a normal balance.

• 3

  Participate in mild exercise routines. Taking a walk, house cleaning and taking the stairs instead of an elevator can greatly reduce hypertension. According to Elijah Saunders, M.D., University of Maryland cardiologist, exercise imitates nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a substance that naturally opens the blood vessels.

• 4

  Manage stress, anger and anxiety with relaxation techniques. Breathe deeply and close your eyes to relax in an anxious situation. Use relaxing music or squeeze a plastic ball to reduce anger and stress. Take a vacation or join a stress-management group. Enjoy a hobby and take a break from everyday life such as bills, work or even family.

• 5

  Stop unhealthy habits such as smoking and drinking. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the nicotine found in cigarettes limits blood flow through the body, causing the heart to pump blood faster, raising the blood pressure. Consuming an excessive quantity of alcohol limits the amount of nutrients that reach your organs from your heart. This is because the alcohol races through the blood stream to certain parts of your body and blocks the vital minerals that the body requires.