The importance of monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol levels can’t be overstated. High levels of both can put you at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke and more. This is especially true in middle aged people. That’s why it’s important to know how to effectively monitor and lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
First, it’s essential to get your blood pressure checked on a regular basis. The American Heart Association recommends an annual check-up at minimum. If your blood pressure is high, your doctor may prescribe a blood pressure-lowering medication and make lifestyle recommendations, such as following a low sodium diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking.
Another important factor for controlling blood pressure is managing your stress levels. Practicing mindful meditation and getting enough sleep can both help to lower stress levels and maintain healthier blood pressure levels.
Along with blood pressure, managing your cholesterol is important for heart health. You can make some dietary changes that may help, such as eliminating saturated and trans fats from your diet and eating more plant-based proteins and healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, olives, and fish. Regular exercise and reducing your weight, if necessary, are also beneficial.
Your doctor may recommend taking a statin to lower cholesterol. Statins work by blocking an enzyme that your liver needs to produce cholesterol, resulting in your body naturally producing less cholesterol. They may also help your body to reabsorb LDL, the “bad” cholesterol.
Ultimately, there are several things that middle-aged people can do to lower their blood pressure and cholesterol levels. With regular check-ups and monitoring, healthy lifestyle choices, and potential medication, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels can be kept under control and your overall heart health improved.
