As per the latest statistics report 1 out of 3 adults suffers from high blood pressure or hypertension. It is observed that people mostly rely on pricey medications instead of trying natural remedies for high blood pressure. During American Heart Association’s Council for High Blood Pressure Research annual meeting, a research report was presented. According to this research report, many doctors don’t follow national guidelines required for treating people with high blood pressure.

For patient’s convenience American Heart Association presents an online calculator which is helpful in calculating the risk. Besides online calculator AHA has given 5 low-cost methods to control high blood pressure. These 5 low-cost methods are described below:

• Switch to Diuretics: Diuretics are the most commonly prescribed and effective medications for high blood pressure. Diuretics mainly include alpha blockers, calcium channel blockers and ACE-inhibitors. Thiazide diuretics is one of the most effective and affordable diuretics for treating hypertension or high blood pressure. It essential that you consult your physician before switching to diuretics.
• Regulate Your Salt Consumption: Various researches have proved that higher salt consumption enhances the blood pressure. As per The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute recommendations a healthy adult should not eat more than 2,400 milligrams of sodium or 1 teaspoon of salt. Whereas for people suffering from high blood pressure the recommended salt consumption is about ½ teaspoon of salt or 1,200 milligrams of sodium. It is also advisable for high blood pressure patients to substitute spices like ginger, garlic, bay leaf, pepper, nutmeg, oregano, rosemary, basil and curry powder.
• DASH Diet: DASH Diet or Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet is a research proven diet for people with high blood pressure. This diet mainly lays emphasis on low fat dairy products, fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains. And it is observed that people on DASH diet can lower their high blood pressure.
• Avoid Alcohol: It is observed that even cutting down 1-2 drinks per day for a heavy drinker can lower systolic blood pressure. Besides controlling your blood pressure it also regulates unwanted calories hence regulating your weight gain.
• Regular Exercise: Various researches have proved that regular exercise reduces an average of 4/3 mm Hg of blood pressure. Hence it is recommended to perform at least 30 minutes of exercise on most of the days. Regular exercise also cut downs excess weight a major cause of hypertension or high blood pressure.

These were simple 5 low-cost ways to lower your blood pressure. Try to follow these methods and enjoy its benefits but remember to consult your physician before following these tips.

Source: U.S. News