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Blood pressure affects 30% of the United States, while diabetes affects about 10% of the United States as of 2012. The two affect your heart in different ways but are correlated. So, lower your blood pressure, lower your risk for diabetes.

Lower Your Blood Pressure, Lower Your Risk for Diabetes

Having high blood pressure can lead to cases of diabetes and kidney disease. Additionally, if you already have either of those issues, they can become worsened with hypertension.

Since diabetes can damage your arteries, it can increase the risk of problems like high blood pressure. The arteries can harden and lead to atherosclerosis, which can lead to high blood pressure.

High blood pressure can also lead to heart attack and stroke–both of which can be life ending.

What to do If You Have Diabetes

If you already have diabetes or blood pressure, be sure to stay on top of your health. Meaning, get check ups regularly, exercise at least five days a week for 30 minutes, and eat a healthy diet.

It’s recommended that blood pressure levels do not exceed 140/80 for those with diabetes. It’s an unhealthy level in general, but it is especially dangerous if you are already dealing with diabetes.

Being mindful of your blood sugar is equally as important, too. Keeping healthy levels will help you reduce the risk of high blood pressure.

Unfortunately, high blood pressure shows no symptoms, so that’s why having regular checkups is extremely important.

If you do have high blood pressure, lifestyle changes can help reduce your levels. Medications can also be used to help, if taken as prescribed by your doctor.

To avoid getting diabetes or high blood pressure altogether, eat a balanced diet and get regular exercise. Doing these things will help you to live by the idea: lower your blood pressure, lower your risk of diabetes.

Resources

http://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/guide/high-blood-pressure#1

 

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