It is important to maintain a healthy diet. A diet rich in fruit and vegetables and low in saturated fats is generally recommended. Reducing weight is difficult for many persons to accomplish. A change in dietary habits to healthier foods and a slow reduction in weight through an increase in physical activity and a modest reduction in caloric intake is likely to be more successful than a rapid and radical change which would be difficult to maintain over the long run. Alcohol Excessive intake of alcohol both increases blood pressure and causes hypertension.
Women appear to be more sensitive to the adverse effects of alcohol than men.
It is recommended that drinking be less than 2 drinks per day and less than 14 drinks per week in men and 9 drinks per week in women. Those who drink more than these limits would benefit from a reduction in alcohol consumption. A reduction in alcohol consumption can also assist with weight reduction. Those who are unable to reduce their drinking on their own should consult a health care professional. Exercise Inactive individuals can lower their blood pressure by increasing their physical activity.