What is Hypertension (High Blood Presure)?

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition characterized by elevated blood pressure in the arteries. Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries as it flows through them. It is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and expressed as two numbers, systolic pressure over diastolic pressure (e.g., 120/80 mmHg).

• Systolic pressure: The top number, representing the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood.

• Diastolic pressure: The bottom number represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats.
  
  

The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association divide blood pressure into four categories. Ideal blood pressure is categorized as normal.

• Normal blood pressure. Blood pressure is lower than 120/80 mm Hg.

• Elevated blood pressure. The top number ranges from 120 to 129 mm Hg and the bottom number is below, not above, 80 mm Hg.

• Stage 1 hypertension. The top number ranges from 130 to 139 mm Hg or the bottom number is between 80 and 89 mm Hg.

• Stage 2 hypertension. The top number is 140 mm Hg or higher or the bottom number is 90 mm Hg or higher.
  
  

Blood pressure higher than 180/120 mm Hg is considered a hypertensive emergency or crisis. Seek emergency medical help for anyone with these blood pressure numbers.

Hypertension is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it typically doesn't cause noticeable symptoms but can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. These complications may include heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, vision loss, and other health problems.

Never reduce or stop taking your blood pressure medication(s) without first consulting with your doctor.

Six Steps To Lowering Your Blood Pressure

[Based on one man's journey - a seventy-year-old male who has struggled with overcoming Stage-1 and Stage-2 hypertension for over forty years, even with the aid of medication. These steps resulted in achieving normal blood pressure.]

Step 1: Buy and read this book.

Step 2: Implement the 3-step nutrition program
as outlined on pages 186 and 187.

Step 3: Eat well-balanced meals with plenty of fruits,
vegetables and grains.

Step 4: Eliminate salt (sodium) from your diet. No more
than 1,600 mg (1/4 teaspoon) per day. This means
no processed, fast, or typical restaurant foods.

Step 5: Exercise at least 4 times per week. Exercises
should include both aerobic and strength
training. If you have any severe medical
conditions, consult with your doctor before
starting a new exercise program.

Step 6: Routinely sleep seven and a half to eight
hours each night.