Low blood pressure is not as common as incidences of high blood pressure, still one cannot ignore the fact that hypotension or low blood pressure also needs equal attention and lifestyle changes. So, if you or your loved one is suffering from low blood pressure, which means having a pressure reading of 90/60 mmHg or lower, here are some lifestyle changes you need to follow:
1. Avoid alcohol and drink more water: It is a known fact that alcohol consumption increases blood pressure. With every 10 g of alcohol consumption your pressure increases by 1 mmHg [1]. But that doesn t mean you drink to your heart s content if you suffer from low blood pressure. Remember, too much alcohol can also lead to dehydration which can lead to a drop in blood pressure further. Instead, drinking adequate water keeps the fluid levels in your body up and helps to boost circulation. Also, hydrating your body means helping it eradicate one symptom of low blood pressure dehydration. Here is how alcohol affects your body.
2. Monitor your salt intake: In the case of high blood pressure, it is wise to cut down on salt intake as sodium increases your blood pressure levels. However, going overboard with your salt is not an answer to treating low blood pressure. Increase in salt intake could significantly increase your risk for high blood pressure, organ damage and other complications [2]. So to treat low blood pressure better be on track with your salt intake and ensure that you have your 2 to 3 mg of recommended salt through your diet. In case, your doctor asks you to increase your salt intake you can do that by sprinkling soup mixes on your food. But do it with moderation. Here is how salt can damage your body.
3. Avoid sudden body movements: Since dizziness and light-headedness are symptoms of low blood pressure be very cautious while changing your body positions, especially, when suddenly getting up from a sitting position or bed. A drop in blood pressure while getting up suddenly can lead to dizziness or even an accident. So to avoid accidents, first squeeze your feet and ankles a few times before standing. While getting out of the bed roll over a side and first sit up at the edge and then stand.
4. Limit intake of high carbohydrate foods: A high carb diet is not advisable for people suffering from low blood pressure. Studies have shown that decreasing carbohydrate content in food can help decrease systolic blood pressure and shorter the duration of postprandial hypotension [3]. If you suffer from low blood pressure the more your age start limiting your carbohydrate content. Here are eight Indian diet habits that are bad for your health.
5. Avoid hot water baths and saunas: Hot water baths and saunas, especially, if you are indulging in it for prolonged time this can lead to dizziness and light headedness too as it lowers the pressure in the body. So avoid using them as a luxury bath. If you still need to indulge in the same always use a stool so you can sit and relax. Remember, to again squeeze your feet and thighs before getting up from the stool. Here are 12 symptoms of low blood pressure that you need to know.
6. Eat frequent meals: Since postprandial hypotension or dizziness after having a meal is common in people who suffer from low blood pressure, avoid having a heavy meal at one go. Instead have small meals every two hours to help your body deal with the low-pressure issue and keep you safe from postprandial dizziness.
7. Wear stockings if necessary: Do this only if your doctor tells you or ask your doctor if this will help in treating low blood pressure. Wearing stockings that cover the calves and thighs help to keep the blood in the upper body for too long without making a dip in the blood pressure.
References
1. 1: Puddey IB, Beilin LJ. Alcohol is bad for blood pressure. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol. 2006 Sep;33(9):847-52. Review. PubMed PMID: 16922819.
2. 1: He FJ, MacGregor GA. Effect of modest salt reduction on blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized trials. Implications for public health. J Hum Hypertens. 2002 Nov;16(11):761-70. PubMed PMID: 12444537.
3. 1: Vloet LC, Mehagnoul-Schipper DJ, Hoefnagels WH, Jansen RW. The influence of low-, normal-, and high-carbohydrate meals on blood pressure in elderly patients with postprandial hypotension. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2001 Dec;56(12):M744-8. PubMed PMID: 11723147.
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