Vitamin D shortage puts Indians at high blood pressure risk

 A new study led by an India researcher has confirmed that low levels of vitamin D can trigger hypertension.

 Some studies say every second Indian is affected, others peg it higher at eight out of every 10 Indians. The deficiency is worrying as it's linked to a range of diseases from bone problems to cancer.

source:- http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-08-04/india/41056877_1_vitamin-d-dr-vipla-puri-deficiency

So guys gear up get your vit D levels checked before it is too late.

Reducing Salt in Your Diet

               Reducing Salt in Your Diet

Go easy on condiments that contain considerable amounts of salt, including ketcup, mustard, monosodium glutamate (MSG), salad dressings, sauces, olives, sauerkraut, and pickles and other items packed in brine are saturated in salt, as are many smoked and cured meats, like salami and bologna.

When dining in Chinese or Japanese restaurants ask for meals without MSG or added salt. Nowadays, you can also request low-sodium soy sauce for your table. If they don't have any, dilute the regular by adding a tablespoon of water

May 17 is World Hypertension Day

May 17 is World Hypertension Day

Cutting back on sodium is one action you can take to reduce your risk of hypertension (high BP) and its related complications.

Keep in mind that your taste buds are probably accustomed to a strong taste of salt, so limiting your consumption might take a little getting used to, but your health is worth it!

Here are some sodium-cutting tips you can try today:

Start changing early, so you can change gradually.

Introduce additional flavor to your foods with herbs and spices like garlic, oregano, basil, lemon juice, vinegar, pepper, thyme and sesame. These all add flavor without the extra sodium.

If a recipe calls for salt, cut the amount called for in half and taste it before adding more.

Encourage the rest of your household to join your program.

Understanding Blood Pressure Readings – Know your Numbers

Understanding Blood Pressure Readings  Know your Numbers

 

Do you know what your blood pressure is and what it means?

If  you answer “no,” and might be wondering why you need to know that…..Right, then please read on and do get your BP checked.

Blood pressure refers to how much force your blood is putting on the walls of the arteries in your body. When there is a large amount of force on the walls of your arteries it is called high blood pressure, or hypertension. High blood pressure or hypertension is a disease and is often called the “silent killer” because symptoms are often not felt or noticed by the person who has the disease.

It is very important for you to know what your blood pressure is so that you can take action to keep yourself healthy.

For now, concentrate on what your blood pressure is, and in what category your reading places you.

NORMAL BP

Starting at age 20, the American Heart Association recommends a blood pressure screening at your regular healthcare visit or once every 2 years. A normal systolic pressure is less than 120, and a normal diastolic pressure is less than 80. What this means is that a normal blood pressure would be anything less than 120/80. If even one of your numbers is higher than what is considered normal, you should think about making some lifestyle changes.

PRE HYPERTENSION 

If your blood pressure is between 120/80 mmHg and 139/89 mmHg, then you have prehypertension. This means that you don't have high blood pressure now but are likely to develop it in the future. You can take steps to prevent high blood pressure by adopting a healthy lifestyle. However check it at least every year or more often as your doctor suggests.

HIGH BP  

If your blood pressure reading is higher than normal, a single high reading does not necessarily mean that you have high blood pressure. However, if readings stay at 140/90 mm Hg or above over time, your doctor will likely want you to begin a treatment program. Such a program almost always includes lifestyle changes and often prescription medication.

HYPERTENSIVE CRISIS
If, while monitoring your blood pressure, you get a systolic reading of 180 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic reading of 110 mm HG or higher, you should seek immediate emergency medical treatment for a hypertensive crisis or have someone drive you to the hospital right away.

Take care Get your blood pressure mointored regularly.