We are constantly being told that due to our diets being healthier we are living longer.
However, in the western world the number of people dying from heart disease is still alarmingly high.
One of the most common contributory factors to heart disease is high blood pressure or hypertension as it is medically known.
Even though we are supposed to be living longer the pace of life today takes its toll on our bodies in many ways and hypertension is one of the main illnesses that result from modern-day living.
To analyze the cause of high blood pressure you have to review your lifestyle and respond to the medical advice you are given; some of it you will have heard many times before but some information you may not be aware of.
Hereditary: There could be a history of heart disease in your family.
If this is the case a close regular check on your blood pressure is advised.
Smoking: We are constantly being advised that smoking causes cancer and heart disease.
Alcohol: Alcohol raises blood pressure and to exceed the recommended amount on a regular basis can cause irreversible problems over a period of time.
Salt Intake: Salt is used in some foods as a preservative and has been proven to cause medical problems.
There is enough natural salt in fresh vegetables without having to add to it.
So eliminating salt in cooking would be advantageous.
Diet: Due to the pace of life today, you are tempted to eat more fast foods containing excess fat and carbohydrates.
A high fat intake impacts your arteries thus putting more pressure on your heart by making your heart work much harder.
Exercise: It is all too easy to sit about and do nothing but exercise is vital for the efficient operation of your body.
Lack of exercise not only affects your heart but many other vital organs as well as your joints.
Obesity: Obesity can be the result of lack of exercise or a high fat diet but no matter what the cause, carrying extra weight puts an added strain upon your heart.
Stress: Stress is a condition of these modern times and if not controlled can result in heart disease.
Thinking before doing could be a step in the right direction.
Dental Hygiene: Many people are unaware of this but if you do not look after your teeth by cleaning them regularly, food particles become trapped in cavities and proceed to be absorbed into your system.
This has the same effect on your body as eating decomposed food.
These are the main hypertension causes.
Some people will say that they have heard it all before and do nothing but the choice is yours.
Either improve your way of life or have it cut short.
You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to respond and benefit from what could be a longer life.