Is Salt the Problem?: Separating Hypertension Truth from Fad
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a very common condition in America and around the world. You often hear that salt is to blame for this condition. So what's the truth? Is salt and hypertension a really problematic combination in seniors or are there other factors at play?
To help your senior loved one thrive, you need to know what hypertension is and explore how salt and numerous other factors can lead to high blood pressure. Here are some facts to consider:
What Is Hypertension?
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition where your senior parent's blood pressure readings consistently remain higher than normal. Blood pressure measures the amount of force and resistance in the arteries caused by the flow of blood from the heart to other parts of the body. When your senior loved one's arteries have too much tension, it can lead to issues such as hardening and narrowing of the arteries.
Salt and Hypertension
Your senior loved one's diet and the food consumption choices they make have a large impact on their blood pressure levels. Most research agrees that reducing salt intake can have positive effects on blood pressure levels.
How Does Salt Affect Blood Pressure?
Salt can cause body fluid retention. This leads to higher levels of sodium in your senior loved one's bloodstream and eventually increases their blood pressure.
Other Factors That Can Lead to Hypertension
Having a healthy diet and reducing sodium intake can help your senior loved one, but it isn't the only cause of hypertension. Other factors can lead to high blood pressure, such as:
- Genetics: Increased blood pressure is known to run in families, and it can be caused by a genetic mutation.
- Diet: Your senior's diet has a significant effect on their overall health, including blood pressure levels. Eating processed foods and food high in sugar or saturated fat can lead to a spike in blood pressure over time.
- Stress: Stress releases hormones and causes an increase in blood pressure among other things.
- Lack of exercise: Exercise helps your senior loved one's blood vessels become more efficient and increases the strength of their heart. This can lead to lower blood pressure levels over time.
- Medications: Various medications that your senior loved one might take, such as decongestants and antidepressants, have been linked to increases in blood pressure. Make sure to consult with your senior parent's doctor before giving them any new medications or changing dosages.
Some small changes in your senior loved one's diet and lifestyle can help to lower their blood pressure.
Senior Helpers Hilton Head - Beaufort SC Can Help Your Senior Loved One Monitor Their Blood Pressure
Many factors can lead to hypertension, including salt. If your senior loved one in Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, or Okatie needs help cooking healthier meals or making it to doctor's appointments, Senior Helpers Hilton Head - Beaufort SC can provide them with the support they need. Contact us today to learn more about our services.