Although certain medications can effectively treat high blood pressure, they can also cause unwanted side effects that interfere with your everyday life. Fortunately, there are a number of natural ways to relieve mild to moderate high blood pressure without resorting to powerful prescription medication. All it takes is a little dedication and a commitment to improving your overall health in general. Below, a primary care physician from Emerald City Medical Arts in Seattle, WA, shares a few tips to help you get started. 

3 Tips From Your Primary Care Physician for Tackling High Blood Pressure

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Losing any excess weight and keeping it off is one of the most effective ways to keep your blood pressure in check. The healthy habits you adopt to lose the weight, like getting regular exercise and eating well, will also help you combat it.

2. Limit Your Sodium Consumption

A diet high in sodium can contribute to high blood pressure, even if it is composed of fairly healthy foods. Try to limit your sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day. If your body is especially sensitive to salty foods, keep your total consumption under 1,500 mg daily.

3. Avoid Stressful Situations

Excessive stress can affect the body in countless ways, and increasing blood pressure is one of them. If your life is inherently stressful and you cannot avoid the scenarios causing anxiety, learn other coping mechanisms, like meditation and deep breathing exercises. Try to change your expectations regarding the situations you cannot control, and carve out at least some time to pamper yourself and relax no matter how busy life gets.

If you suffer from high blood pressure, a primary care physician from Emerald City Medical Arts in Seattle, WA, can assess your condition and help you determine the most effective way to treat it. This family medical practice is proud to treat patients of all ages, and they can help everyone you love achieve optimum health. Check out the website to learn more about all of the services this medical clinic provides, or call (206) 281-1616 to make an appointment with a primary care physician today.