- Diets high in sodium can cause high diastolic blood pressure. The recommended daily intake of sodium is 3.8 grams. Most people consume much higher amounts. Prepackaged foods such as potato chips, lunch meats, bacon and frozen dinner contain some of the highest amounts of sodium.
- Excessive weight, especially in the mid-section, contributes to high diastolic blood pressure. Being overweight creates stress on the heart, which can lead to high blood pressure because the heart is forced to overwork. It is possible to reverse high diastolic pressure by exercising and changing your diet. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains.
- Alcoholic beverages are only healthy when consumed in moderation. Excessive alcohol use will cause blood pressure to rise. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, alcohol diverts blood with important nutrients from the heart instead of to it. The lack of nutrients create a strain on the heart.
- Smoking is a major contributor to high blood pressure. Carbon monoxide is one of hundreds of chemicals found in tobacco. Carbon monoxide robs the body of oxygen, causing your blood vessels to become smaller. This decrease in the size of your blood vessels will increase blood pressure.
- Diabetes has the potential to cause early hardening of the arteries. Hardened arteries make it difficult for blood to be effectively pumped throughout the body and back to the heart. This causes the heart to work harder. Left untreated, this condition can lead to kidney disease and failure.
- High diastolic blood pressure can often be totally reversed. Making lifestyle changes such as improving your diet, exercising, reducing alcohol and salt intake, quitting smoking and controlling diabetes will not only improve your blood pressure, but will also improve your overall health.
