The American Heart Association and The American College of Cardiology have released new guidelines for heart health and blood pressure management. Young adults must be aware of these key takeaways to protect their cardiovascular well-being.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation (AFib). If systolic pressure exceeds 180 or diastolic pressure exceeds 120, it can be life-threatening. In such cases, calling emergency services immediately is crucial.
Regular blood pressure checks are essential at every stage of life to detect potential issues early and prevent long-term complications like hypertension and heart disease. Adults should aim to limit sodium intake to 2,300mg daily, with an ideal goal of 1,500mg, following a heart-healthy plan such as the DASH diet.
Maintaining a healthy weight can also make a significant impact on blood pressure management. Dropping just 5% of body weight can lead to substantial improvements in blood pressure and overall heart health. To achieve this, it’s recommended to adopt a balanced eating pattern with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy oils.
Additionally, staying active, reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption, and practicing stress-reducing activities like meditation, breathing control, and yoga can also help manage blood pressure according to the guidelines.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/web-stories/new-blood-pressure-guidelines-by-american-heart-association-key-takeaways/photostory/123330234.cms