In November 2017, the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology released new guidelines for high blood pressure (also known as hypertension). The definition of high blood pressure has been lowered to 130/80 from 140/90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). This means that more women will meet the criteria for stage 1 hypertension. Before you panic, let’s determine what exactly this means.
Having higher blood pressure can put you at greater risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, eye disease and cognitive decline. The new guidelines indicate that we should all take the issue of high blood pressure seriously, but it’s worth pointing out that the methods proven to lower blood pressure are not complex. Lifestyle changes can drastically change your blood pressure, and though some of these changes may be difficult to implement over the long-term, they are well worth it!
Here are ways to lower your blood pressure:
- Lose weight
- Reduce your sodium intake (hint: read your labels!)
- Increase exercise (weight lifting is especially effective)
- Limit alcohol intake to one drink per day
- Relieve stress
- Chiropractic Adjustments
Yes, you’re reading this correctly. Chiropractic care can significantly decrease blood pressure. In a study involving 290 adults, some of whom had high blood pressure and others not, people were randomly assigned to three groups. One group received upper thoracic chiropractic adjustments, one was given zero treatment, and the other was given a “placebo” treatment (they went through the motions of an adjustment without any actual adjusting).
For the group receiving actual adjustments, the baseline measurements of blood pressure experienced a decrease of about 7%. The other two groups showed zero signs of blood pressure reduction.
As studies like this continue showing, chiropractic care is helpful not only for our musculoskeletal system, but our vascular and nervous systems. By adjusting patients, I am not only treating painful conditions, but am helping them improve their overall health.
I can assist you in lowering your blood pressure through lifestyle choices and chiropractic adjustments tailored to meet your exact needs. Reach out to me to schedule a consultation at 920-499-3333.
Best of health,
Dr. Chad M. Hoffman
Lifestyle Chiropractic
(920) 499-3333
DrChadMHoffman@gmail.com
