8 ways to take control of blood pressure Sources: American Heart Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention If you smoke, be a quitter. Smoking can have unhealthy effects on your cholesterol levels. Eat hearthealthy foods. Start by limiting your intake of saturated and trans fats. Keep moving. Walk. Swim. Cycle. Enjoy! Manage your weight. If you’re overweight, losing just 5% of your current weight may help. Listen to your doctor. Take cholesterollowering medications, if prescribed. 1. Keep a daily log of your blood pressure readings, taken at the same time each day, to track your progress. 2. Get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week. That’s about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. 7. Take your blood pressure medication as prescribed. 8. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels and follow your recommended treatment, including medication. 3. Don’t smoke. 5. Maintain a healthy weight. 6. Learn ways to reduce your stress levels. 4. Eat a healthy diet. Limit sodium and alcohol, which raise blood pressure. Krishna Velagapudi, MD, Faith Regional CardioVascular Institute Control your cholesterol FRHS.ORG 15
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