What Should My Blood Pressure Be?

It is important for people to know what their blood pressure should be as it is an indicator of good health and well-being. High blood pressure can be a predictor of heart disease and stroke; both of which can have serious consequences. It is important to understand the basics of blood pressure and why it is important to maintain healthy levels.

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries. The walls of the arteries are elastic and can change shape when the pressure inside changes. When the pressure inside the arteries is too high it is called ‘high blood pressure’ or ‘hypertension’. It is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and is expressed as two numbers—systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number).

What is a Healthy Level of Blood Pressure?

It is generally accepted that a healthy blood pressure for adults should be lower than 120/80 mm Hg. The American Heart Association has set some guidelines to help people determine their healthy blood pressure range:

• a systolic pressure of less than 120 mm Hg
• a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mm Hg
• a blood pressure at or below 120/80 mm Hg.

It is important to note that different people may have different healthy blood pressure levels, and it is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly by a healthcare professional to determine your ideal level.

Tips to Maintain a Healthy Blood Pressure

There are several things you can do to maintain healthy blood pressure levels. These include:

• Eating a balanced diet: Consuming a healthy balance of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help maintain healthy levels of blood pressure.

• Exercising regularly: Participating in 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week can go a long way towards helping maintain healthy levels of blood pressure.

• Limiting your salt intake: Limiting your daily intake of salt to 2.4 grams can help keep your blood pressure levels in check.

• Limiting alcohol intake: Limiting the amount of alcohol you consume to one to two drinks a day can reduce your blood pressure levels.

• Decreasing stress levels: Enough cannot be said about how important it is to take time to relax and reduce stress. Taking time to meditate or just relax can help to lower blood pressure as well.

It is important to speak to a healthcare professional about what your ideal blood pressure levels should be, and to work on lifestyle changes that can help you reach and maintain healthy levels. Monitoring your pressure regularly and staying on top of lifestyle changes can help to ensure good health and well-being.