World Hypertension Day 17th May
World Hypertension Day was created in 2005 and is an annual event designed to promote public awareness and prevent the leading cause of preventable death worldwide. Hypertension (high blood pressure) kills 9.4 million people worldwide every year. High blood pressure is responsible for 13% of global deaths, making it the leading cause of premature death.
Prevention is vital in reducing the occurrence of hypertension among the population. Prevention methods include:
- Reduced salt consumption
- Increased fruit and vegetable intake
- Limited alcohol intake
- No smoking
- Being physically active
- Maintain a healthy body weight
Only 50% of people with high blood pressure are aware of it, making prevention and awareness all the more vital. Checking your blood pressure regularly will ensure that you are in the know of this area of your health. If hypertension is left untreated it can cause:
- Death
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Dementia
- Kidney failure
- Vision loss
Statistics show that approximately 4 in 10 adults aged over 25 have hypertension and a further 1 in 5 have prehypertension.
Research has shown that an unhealthy diet and obesity contributes to approximately 80% of hypertension cases. With this in mind, making the right dietary choices is paramount in having the best chance at avoid hypertension and the risks associated with it.
The following food choices have shown to be effective in both reducing and maintaining a healthy blood pressure.
Leafy greens
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Berries
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Beetroot |
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Skimmed milk |
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Low-fat natural yoghurt |
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Oats |
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Bananas |
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Oily fish
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Seeds
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Garlic and herbs
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Dark chocolate
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Pistachios |
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Olive oil |
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Pomegranates |
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We have a vast range of Workplace Nutrition Services – click here to find out more, or give us a call on 07810 716758 for an informal chat.
