You might have heard of hypertension – or high blood pressure. But did you know that two of the biggest culprits are as common as your local corner shop? We’re, of course, talking about smoking and drinking.
What is hypertension?
Before we get into the impact, let’s cover the basics first – what is hypertension?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. If your blood pressure is consistently higher than normal then this is hypertension. Over time, it can make blood vessels stiff and less elastic, which can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other issues.
Most people don’t experience any symptoms, which is why NHS Health Checks are so important for those aged 40-74. They are a great chance to check in and help you stay healthier for longer.
The link between smoking and hypertension
We all know that smoking can play havoc with our health, but the link to hypertension can often be overlooked. Every puff of a cigarette sends your blood pressure rocketing up for a few minutes. While that might not seem like a big deal, over time, your body might get used to this higher pressure, leading to hypertension.
There are also proactive measures that you can take – staying active and maintaining a healthy weight are great ways to support your blood pressure and heart health!
There are plenty of foods supporting healthy blood pressure levels, such as your 5-a-day, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean proteins. One ingredient to watch out is salt. Too much salt can increase your blood pressure, so keep it to a maximum of 1 teaspoon a day, including the salt in food you buy.
Say hello to healthier habits
We know that giving up smoking for good and being healthier isn’t a walk in the park. That’s why we’re here to lend a helping hand with our free programmes.
- Our stop smoking programme includes 8-12 weeks of free expert support and Nicotine Replacement Therapy to increase your chances of success.
- Our 12-week weight management programme can help you make healthier habits. Plus we include lots of healthy recipe ideas to keep you inspired in the kitchen.
Let’s Make a Change Today
By saying no to smoking and choosing healthier behaviours, we can all reduce our risk of hypertension and lead healthier, happier lives.
If you’re ready to make a change, or if you know someone who could benefit from our programmes, we’re here to help.
Remember, small changes can make a BIG difference.
