Lower Your Blood Pressure Reading This Christmas By Following These Seven Tips

High blood pressure, which is also called hypertension, is a medical condition characterized by the constant high pressure of the blood as it pushes against the artery walls. The main problem with high blood pressure is that oftentimes it has no symptoms, or if there are any, they appear similar to less-serious conditions.

This condition, when left untreated, can lead to life-threatening ailments like heart disease, kidney problems, and stroke. During festive seasons like Christmas, a combination of factors such as stress and diet can exacerbate the condition.

Blood Pressure UK conducted a survey to find out how this festive season can increase blood pressure. The results showed shopping for gifts, along with attendant circumstances like finding a place to park, waiting in long lines, and many more topped the list.

To help keep your blood pressure at normal levels this Christmas, the charitable organization recommended seven tips.

1. Consume less salt

Numerous studies have shown salt can increase blood pressure levels. Most of the traditional Christmas food prepared during dinner contains ingredients like sausages, stuffings, and bacon, which already contain lots of salt. When cooking them, you need not add more salt. Do not put the salt shaker on the dining table to break the habit of immediately putting salt on food placed on the table.

2. Increase Fruit and Vegetable Consumption

Fruit and vegetables contain potassium that can lower blood pressure. Fortunately, most Christmas dinners may be full of tasty options like Brussel sprouts and Clementine’s. You may want to go for five portions a day.

3. Make Your Shopping Stress-free

Try planning ahead by making a shopping list and where to get your gift items. You can try calling the shops ahead to see if they have stocks of such items. According to Blood Pressure UK, doing so can save you lots of time and will make your shopping a wonderful experience.

4. Avoid Overeating

Obesity and weight gain put you at an increased risk of high blood pressure. You do not want to spend the following month on a diet, so try to limit your food intake during Christmas.

5. Look for Good Deals

When shopping for food ingredients and gift items, check the stores’ websites to see which of them have the best deals. See if the ones with low prices have hidden costs like postage and parking. Finding out these things at a later time can just stress you out, so it is better if you have the information early on.

6. Try To Keep Warm

Did you know that lower temperatures can worsen blood pressure levels? Studies have shown the relationship of low temps to high blood pressure, particularly on the elderly.

7. Move

Get up from the couch and perform some exercises. While running outdoors may not appeal because of the cold, dancing, or working-out inside your home can be a good idea. These indoor activities can help keep your blood pressure down. A lovely stroll on Christmas day is also a good way to get your blood circulation going. As a bonus, you can also burn-off some extra calories.