Recent studies connect blood pressure and cognitive decline. Want to improve your memory? Take care of your blood pressure.
According to a December 14, 2020 study available in Hypertension, there is a connection between blood pressure and cognition. By analyzing two health assessments of more than 7,000 participants, researchers found the intriguing connection.
People with high blood pressure had greater cognitive decline (thinking skills) than those with normal blood pressure. There were a number of changes in areas like memory, language, and concentration.
Researchers based their high blood pressure readings on anything equal to or above 130/80 mm Hg. However, even people with a systolic (top number) reading of 120 or above saw a faster cognitive decline.
On the bright side, it seems that treating high blood pressure (hypertension) at any age can deter cognitive decline. There are various ways to manage hypertension, either at home or through medication.
Treating High Blood Pressure
While there are medications for treating high blood pressure, they are not your only option. Practicing healthy lifestyle habits can make a big difference when it comes to managing hypertension.
The following are some simple changes you can make to improve your blood pressure health. Even so, it’s not a good idea to throw away your medicine just yet; discuss your options with your healthcare provider first.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
As weight increases, so does blood pressure so make plans to lose weight if you’re overweight or obese. Furthermore, waistline size is a good indicator of hypertension risk, so keep yours less than 40 inches (men) and 35 inches (women).
Become Physically Active
By regularly exercising at least 150 minutes a week, you can lower blood pressure by 5 to 8 mm Hg. Moreover, aerobic exercise can make a huge difference, so try walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, and similar types of workouts.
Eat DASH
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet specifically targets high blood pressure individuals. It revolves around eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products – and it’s effective.
Limit Salt Intake
By reducing the amount of sodium (salt) in your diet, you can lower your blood pressure by 5 to 6 mm Hg. While the recommended limit is 2,300 mg per day, lower intake (1,500 mg per day or less) is ideal.
The Outlook
High blood pressure is a significant factor in heart disease – the number one killer in the U.S. In addition to heart disease, researchers have found a connection between hypertension and cognitive decline.
The good news is that treating the condition at any age can lower the risk of cognitive decline. There are various things you can do at home to manage the condition and lower the risk of getting high blood pressure.
Following healthy lifestyle habits like exercising regularly, eating a well-balanced diet, and limiting salt consumption can go a long way. Moreover, you can add heart and circulation supplements like L-arginine Plus to your routine for extra support.
It works by increasing nitric oxide in the body, a molecule that relaxes blood vessels and improves overall blood flow. Try L-arginine Plus alongside these other tips to promote healthy circulation and lower blood pressure effectively.