Hypertension is the term used to describe high blood pressure. Major causative factors include how much water and salt are in your body, the condition of your kidneys, nervous system and blood vessels, and hormone levels. As you may already know, hypertension increases your risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney disease and early death.
The most popular means of treating this condition is with medication. Although effective, taking these medications can lead to a myriad of side effects. These adverse effects include, but are not limited to increased urination, weakness, fatigue, depression, sexual problems, leg cramping, asthma symptoms, sleep problems, skin rash, loss of taste, dizziness, constipation, diarrhea, headaches, joint aches…shall I go on?
Of course, you should always consult your doctor before stopping any medications, but there are healthy ways to control hypertension. One of these natural methods is aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise is any activity that increases heart and breathing rates. Regular exercise strengthens your heart. A stronger heart can pump more blood with less effort. It takes about one to three months of regular aerobic exercise to have an impact on blood pressure. You don’t have to be a top tier athlete to make a commitment to exercising. Thirty minutes a day for most days of the week can make a lasting, positive impact on your blood pressure.
Diet also plays a pivotal role. Diets high in sodium have been shown to increase blood pressure. Healthy diets, consisting of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, poultry, nuts, legumes and seeds are a great way to control blood pressure. These good foods are high in potassium, magnesium, and fiber, among other healthy nutrients.
One lesser known way to control blood pressure is through Chiropractic care. It has been shown that specific Chiropractic adjustments to the Atlas, the first vertebra in your neck, are a very effective way to alleviate hypertension. Because it is directly under the area where the spinal cord exits your skull it is believed that if your Atlas is out of proper alignment, your nervous system can be compromised. When realigned, your brain can communicate better with your muscles and organs. This includes your heart!
Medications are effective at controlling hypertension, but who wants to take all those pills and risk adverse side effects? A healthier, happier lifestyle through exercise, healthy diet and Chiropractic should be part of everyone’s life, especially those afflicted with hypertension.
