Tips to help you lower your high blood pressure
To help get your blood pressure down to a healthier level, try these tips:
1. Set a blood pressure goal. †
Determine a blood pressure goal with your healthcare professional (HCP) and monitor your progress regularly.
2. Keep an eye on what you eat. †
Changes in your food choices—both at home and when you dine out—can make a difference in your blood pressure.
When eating out, a few smart moves can help you lower your salt intake.
When eating at home, a one-two punch of shopping smart and cooking heart-healthy can help lower your blood pressure.
And consider adopting the DASH diet. Also known as Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, the DASH diet was specifically created to lower blood pressure. The focus here is on grains, fruits, vegetables, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. To find out more about how the DASH diet can help you lower your blood pressure, log on to www.nhlbi.nih.gov and search for "DASH diet."
3. Find alternatives for salt (sodium). †
Reducing the amount of sodium in your diet may help lower your blood pressure. A good way to do this is to buy fewer processed foods and replace those favorite items with low-sodium versions. As you live with less salt in your diet, replace the flavor with herbs and spices.
4. Think outside the gym. †
Get involved in any physical activities that get you up and moving for at least 30 minutes, most days of the week. Walk the dog, garden, play golf, try yoga—it's your choice. Being active can help you get closer to your blood pressure goal.
5. Take your medication as prescribed.
As an important part of your treatment plan, you may have been prescribed a blood pressure medication. If so, always take it as directed.
If you suspect you might have high blood pressure, ask your HCP to check your numbers. If you have the condition, find out if medication may be right for you.
*Limitations apply. This offer is not valid for patients reimbursed by federal healthcare programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, the Department of Veterans Affairs, state maternal and child health block grant programs under 42 U.S.C. section 701 et seq., state social services block grant programs under 42 U.S.C. section 1397 et seq., or any other similar federal or state healthcare program; or for patients in MA; or purchased outside the US and Puerto Rico. Void where prohibited by law, taxed, or restricted. See Terms & Conditions. If your pharmacist or cashier has questions about processing your savings, please refer them to the toll-free number on the back of the Savings & Membership Card. The BP Success Zone Program Savings & Membership Card is the property of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation and Therapy First and must be returned upon request. Both parties reserve the right to rescind, revoke, or amend this offer without notice. This offer will expire on December 31, 2010. Limit one offer per patient. Patient is responsible for reporting receipt of Program rewards to any private insurer that pays for or reimburses you for any part of the prescriptions filled with this Program.
†Consult with your HCP before making any dietary changes or starting an exercise routine.
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