Five simple steps to control your blood pressure

Uncontrolled high blood pressure (HBP or hypertension) can have serious consequences. If you've been diagnosed with high blood pressure, these five straightforward steps can help you effectively manage it:

Know Your Numbers Most individuals diagnosed with high blood pressure aim to maintain levels below 130/80 mm Hg, although your healthcare provider can provide you with a personalized target blood pressure.

Collaborate with Your Doctor Your healthcare provider will assist you in devising a plan to lower your blood pressure.

Make Lifestyle Adjustments In many cases, your doctor's primary recommendations will pertain to the following areas:

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aim for a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9.

Adopt a Healthier Diet: Increase your consumption of fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy while reducing saturated and total fat intake.

Decrease Sodium Intake: Ideally, stay under 1,500 mg per day, but aim for a reduction of at least 1,000 mg per day.

Get Active: Strive for 90 to 150 minutes of aerobic and/or dynamic resistance exercise per week, or engage in three sessions of isometric resistance exercises per week.

Limit Alcohol: Consume no more than 1-2 drinks a day (one for most women, two for most men).

Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home Take responsibility for your treatment by regularly tracking your blood pressure.

Adhere to Medication Regimen If medication is prescribed, ensure you take it exactly as instructed by your doctor.