Let’s start this hearts month by taking a close look at our health! One of the most important aspects of our health, although often overlooked, is blood pressure. Even though we get our blood pressure measured for annual physical examinations or regular medical checkups, we aren’t conscious of it until we feel unwell. It is also something affected by various factors, such as our diet and amount of physical activity. High blood pressure, known as hypertension, can have adverse effects on our health if we aren’t careful.
Simply put, blood pressure is the force of blood that flows from our heart through our arteries and to the rest of the body. Our muscles and other organs need the right amount of oxygenated blood for them to keep our body running efficiently. You may see that it is often represented by two numbers: the first number, known as the systolic number, shows the pressure when the heart contracts, while the second or diastolic number shows your blood pressure when your heart relaxes between beats. According to the American Heart Association, normal blood pressure ranges from below 120 and below 80, while high blood pressure begins once your systolic blood pressure reaches 130 and above, and your diastolic blood pressure at 80 and above. The World Health Organization states that you can be hypertensive if the first number measures 140 or above and/or the second number measures 90 or above on 2 different days.
Hypertension is known as a “silent killer,” increasing our risk for various illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and even COVID-19, even though it has no warning signs, 37% of Filipinos are hypertensive, and it is the second-leading cause of morbidity in the Philippines as of 2018. You may be more likely to have hypertension if you have a diet high in fats and sugars, are physically inactive, or are a smoker.
To help prevent hypertension, you can try shifting to healthier options in your diet—you can try replacing chips and candies for snacks with fruit, and processed meats with fresh fish and eggs. It’s also recommended to exercise regularly. Even at home, we can try activities such as yoga or walking workouts that can compensate for our time sitting down. Don’t forget to take breaks from time to time to avoid too much stress and check your blood pressure regularly!
To support your healthy diet, you can also include food supplements like Organique Acai Premium Blend, which you can take in a shot glass 30 minutes before breakfast. Packed with anthocyanins, which can help ease your blood vessels and improve blood circulation through their anti-inflammatory properties, you can build up your defense against hypertension!
To know more about Organique Açaí Premium Blend, visit organique.com.ph or call hotline, 0969-1754233. Available in all Mercury drugstores, S&R outlets and other major drugstores and supermarkets near you.
