If you were to take measures to prevent hypertension you will be able to increase your lifespan. Approximately fifty million Americans are hypertensive. Anyone with a reading over 140/90 is considered to be having high blood pressure. Once you get hypertension it becomes difficult to get rid of it and get back to normal. However, it is easier to not get it in the first place by following certain preventive measures.

• The first thing that you must do is go for regular checkups which include checking your blood pressure reading and pulse. The numbers should be within the permissible limit of 140/90 and the pulse rate should be between 66 and 82 while resting. In case, if you have hypertension you will be able to take the necessary precautions immediately.
• If you are overweight then a guaranteed way of preventing hypertension is by losing it. The moment you shed those extra pounds you will be able to lower your hypertension or not get hypertension in the first place.
• Always eat a low fat, less animal proteins and refined carbohydrates diet. Binge on fruits, vegetables and nuts. Drink alcohol and caffeine related beverages within limits. Do not smoke as this will certainly aggravate blood pressure. Try and drink a glass of red wine as it is beneficial for the heart. Do not sprinkle salt on your food at the dinner table. Look out for hidden salt added to preserved and processed foods.
• Get yourself off the couch and exercise. Try aerobics as it lowers the blood pressure and is beneficial for the heart. If you can’t do this just a walk everyday will also help.
• Try and live a happy and stress free life. The moment you get stressed just like you curl up your fist, the arteries and veins also restrict because of the hormones related in your body due to the stress
• Get to know your family tree and the disease history. If you have close relatives who did have hypertension then there is more of a chance of you getting it too.
• Get your cholesterol levels checked at least once a year. If you have high cholesterol than it can lead to the blocking of the arteries which in turn will lead to hypertension.
• Keep a diary or a record of your blood pressure and pulse readings. This will enable you to know of what are the triggers that elevate your blood pressure and you can avoid those.
• Doctors recommend taking an aspirin a day for people who have a history of hypertension in their families or cholesterol. They will be able to avoid any strokes or clotting of blood.