Stay in the safe zone

“around 10% of hypertension is secondary to other factors, such as kidney disease, hormone disorders, medicines, alcohol or amphetamines, but in most cases the cause isn’t known,” says Dr melanie WynneJones. and, in a recent study, 53% of those with high blood pressure had no family history of the condition*. so following a balanced lifestyle is key: maintain a healthy weight, with your bmI between 18.5-24.9. eat less sugar and salt.

Cut down on alcohol, or quit completely.

Don’t smoke – visit nhs.uk/smokefree take at least 150 minutes’ exercise a week. If you do have high blood pressure, avoid HIIt (high-intensity interval training), which raises the heart rate too quickly. Power walking is beneficial. De-stress with relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness.