Monitor your blood pressure for a healthy heart

Did you know that in addition to being a major risk factor for heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension) — which affects an estimated 7.5 million Canadians — is the number one risk factor for stroke? If left untreated, hypertension can lead to atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries that’s linked to a host of severe issues including heart failure and heart attacks. This Heart Month, take control of your blood pressure with the following guidelines from the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Have your blood pressure checked regularly — at least once a year, or as recommended by your doctor.

Obesity is closely linked to high blood pressure and heart disease, so try to achieve or to maintain a healthy weight.

Eat nutritious foods, like fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean meats and whole grains. Cut down on salt by reducing how much you add to homecooked meals, and choose processed foods that contain 5% or less of the recommended daily sodium intake.

Get moving. A sedentary lifestyle puts you at risk for hypertension and is also linked to Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and obesity, among other diseases.

Don't smoke, and limit your alcohol consumption. (The recommended weekly maximum is 15 alcoholic drinks for men and 10 for women.)

Learn how to healthily manage anxiety, as high levels of stress can raise your blood pressure over time.