Did you know that more than 1 in 3 Hoosiers has high blood pressure? This May, for High Blood Pressure Education Month, Indiana Health Centers is sharing what you need to know to keep your heart healthy.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, develops when blood flows through the arteries at higher-than-normal pressure. Left uncontrolled, it can lead to serious conditions like heart disease and stroke. That’s why Indiana Health Centers encourages all of our patients to take action to prevent or control high blood pressure.
You can get started by following these seven heart-healthy habits.
7 Heart-Healthy Habits to Start Today
- Get moving! Even a brisk 30-minute walk each day makes a difference.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Follow a heart-healthy eating plan, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan
- Quitting smoking
- Find ways to manage stress, whether that’s a walk, meditation, or time with someone you love
- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night
- Know your numbers: get your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checked regularly
- A healthy blood pressure is typically less than 120/80 mm Hg. If your numbers are higher, your IHC care team is here to help you make a plan that works for you.
If you’re planning to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or recently had a baby, blood pressure management is especially important. Talk to your provider about what’s normal for you and whether there’s anything you should watch for.