BP Basics
What is Good Blood Pressure?
The pressure exerted by the blood when it moves through the arteries is called blood pressure. When heart expands, it sends the pure blood that has arrived from the lungs through the left ventricle. The speeding blood exerts pressure on the wall of the arteries and you can feel the blood pressure on your wrists.There are two types of pressures caused by the flow of blood in the arteries. One is the systolic pressure and the other is the diastolic pressure. When the heart beats the pressure on the wall of the blood vessels is called systolic pressure. The normal range is between 100 mm Hg to 130mm Hg. When the heart rests between the beats the pressure on the wall falls down and is called diastolic pressure. The normal range of diastolic pressure is between70 to 90mm Hg.
The normal blood pressure is denoted as 120/ 80 mm Hg.
Blood pressure increases when the heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. This can be due to a number of reasons. One of the reasons is the obstruction in the blood vessels or the arteries. Obstruction can be caused by deposits of lipids, cholesterol and other substances collectively known as plaque.
A normal blood pressure is essential for good health. There are certain things which you can do to keep the blood pressure readings in the normal range.
A proper, disciplined and regulated diet is essential for maintaining normal blood pressure. Avoid highly processed, junk foods or food with high sodium content.
Eat a lot of fruit and vegetables. These foods contain nutrients which assist the metabolism in the human body. They contain anti-oxidants which fight free radicals.
Begin a regular and consistent exercise routine.
Avoid smoking and tobacco in any form. Smoking constricts the arteries and causes high blood pressure.
Avoid stress and mental tension.