Dr Barbara Oneill High Blood Pressure Recipes

1.1 Define High Blood Pressure High blood pressure, often known as hypertension, is a condition in which the blood's force against the artery walls is consistently excessive. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and expressed as two numbers: systolic pressure (top number) and diastolic pressure (bottom number). The systolic pressure measures the force your heart exerts on the walls of your arteries when it beats, whereas the diastolic pressure measures the force your heart exerts on the walls of your arteries in between beats. A normal blood pressure value is approximately 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure readings persistently exceed 140/90 mm Hg. It is a prevalent disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide and is known as a "silent killer" since it can develop gradually over many years with no symptoms. There are two types of hypertension: primary (important) and secondary. Primary hypertension has no known origin and typically develops gradually over several years. Secondary hypertension, on the other hand, results from an underlying ailment such as kidney disease, hormone imbalances, or the use of certain drugs. Identifying and treating the underlying problem can frequently alleviate secondary hypertension. 1.2 Risks of Untreated Hypertension: Untreated hypertension can lead to significant, even fatal, consequences. It is a significant risk factor for a variety of cardiovascular disorders, such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. Increased pressure on artery walls can cause them to stiffen and thicken (atherosclerosis), resulting in blockages that prevent blood flow to essential organs. In addition to cardiovascular concerns, untreated hypertension can cause renal injury. The kidneys remove waste and excess fluids from the blood, and high blood pressure can damage the blood capillaries in the kidneys, reducing their capacity to function correctly. This may eventually lead to renal failure, necessitating dialysis or a kidney transplant. Another major danger is hypertensive retinopathy, which affects the blood vessels in the eyes. High blood pressure can damage these veins, causing visual impairment and, in extreme circumstances, blindness. Hypertension is also linked to cognitive deterioration and dementia. The disorder can damage small blood vessels in the brain, limiting blood flow and potentially leading to a loss of cognitive function with time. Overall, untreated hypertension puts a load on the body's systems, raising the likelihood of serious and fatal health problems. It is critical to appropriately manage blood pressure in order to avoid these risks and improve overall health. 1.3 An Overview of Conventional Treatments Conventional hypertension therapies often include lifestyle changes and drugs. The primary goal is to lower blood pressure to a normal level, lowering the risk of problems. Lifestyle changes: Diet: Maintaining a healthy diet is essential for controlling blood pressure. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is frequently advised. It focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and lowfat dairy, while limiting salt, red meat, and added sweets. Exercise: Regular physical activity lowers blood pressure and helps you maintain a healthy weight. Walking, jogging, cycling, and swimming are all good exercise options. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight, or reducing weight if overweight, can dramatically lower blood pressure. Limiting Alcohol: Reducing alcohol consumption can help reduce blood pressure. Drinking in moderation is encouraged, with women having up to one drink per day and men having up to two. Stop Smoking: Smoking increases blood pressure and destroys blood vessels. Quitting smoking improves your overall heart health.