As people age, new health conditions come into play. Unfortunately, for people age 70 and older, the result is often high blood pressure. If you believe you have this condition or were recently diagnosed with it, here are a few tips for managing your heart rate.

3 Ways to Manage Your High Blood Pressure

1. Create an Exercise Regimen

By exercising for at least a half an hour every day, you can get your heart rate under control. The more you increase blood circulation, the stronger your heart will get, and the easier it will be for the organ to pump blood throughout your body. If you haven’t exercised in a while, start slow with long walks. Then, move onto swimming, aerobics classes, or even jogging.

2. Alter Your Diet

This is the first change doctors recommend to patients with high blood pressure, but it can be hard to stick to. Instead of switching over to a strict diet that’s difficult to maintain, cut out or limit items in your diet one by one. Start with salty foods, like potato chips, beef jerky, and fast food. The more sodium you consume, the higher your blood pressure will be. Also, incorporate more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into your diet. To stay on track, cook with a friend or family member who is aware of the changes you need to make.

3. Manage Your Stress

High blood pressure isn’t only affected by physical factors—it can also be influenced by your mental health. Mainly, there’s a correlation between increased stress levels and spikes in blood pressure. While it’s not always possible to eliminate the source of your stress, you can manage it by getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night, engaging in mindfulness exercises like meditation or yoga, and taking some quiet time to yourself. Enjoy a warm bath with a book before bed, and turn off your electronic devices at least an hour prior to going to sleep.

If you’re dealing with high blood pressure, DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD, PA in Bergen County, NJ, is here to help. They both diagnose and treat patients with this cardiovascular condition. They have over 20 years of experience. Whether you’re looking for testing or a long-term treatment plan, call them at (201) 845-3535 to schedule an appointment. Visit the website for more information on their services.