Simple Steps to Help Get Control of Your Blood Pressure

Date: 05/13/25

May is Hypertension Awareness Month. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can affect anyone and it is important to learn how to keep it under control. Use these tips to help manage hypertension and live a healthier life.

1. Limit sodium in your diet. Sodium can raise blood pressure, so use less salt when you cook. You can also check food labels to see how much sodium is in your food. A “low sodium” food item should have 140g of sodium or less.
2. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol raises blood pressure and has unneeded calories.
3. Manage your weight. Being overweight causes your heart to work harder and causes high blood pressure. Help manage your weight by:
4. Getting 30 minutes of exercise 5 times per week. Any exercise helps! Start with walking short distances if needed and increase your routine gradually.
5. Having a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables and limiting foods with added sugar.

For more information on hypertension and how to manage it, visit the resources below:

• American Heart Association: What is High Blood Pressure?
• National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: High Blood Pressure