Previously, a nationwide trial funded by the National Institutes of Health found that a diet that is lower in fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods significantly and quickly lowers blood pressure. Also, reducing salt intake helps. Although the cause of hypertension remains unknown, there are factors that are known to increase the chance of developing high blood pressure. If your parents have or had high blood pressure, there is a greater chance you will too. African-Americans are more likely to develop high blood pressure than their white counterparts.
Men run a greater overall risk for developing high blood pressure than women.
The older we get, the greater the risk for developing high blood pressure. People who are overweight are more likely to develop high blood pressure. Other factors that have been shown to contribute to high blood pressure include heavy alcohol consumption, smoking, use of oral contraceptives, and a sedentary or inactive lifestyle. Sources National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute National High Blood Pressure Education Program. The Sixth Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure.