Q I need to lower my blood pressure, and I don’t want to take medicine. I started walking daily, but is there anything else I can do besides overhauling my diet?

A

Kudos for taking the first step! Hypertension does become more common in women after age 60, but there are plenty of ways to keep blood pressure in the safe zone.

First, try squeezing a rubber stress ball for 2 minutes four times a day. The simple exercise can lower blood pressure by 15 points in eight weeks—an effect better than some medications, say researchers in Canada. The repetitive movement of hand muscles helps arteries stay relaxed and open, improving blood flow throughout the body.

Another easy idea: Add flaxseeds to your daily diet. They’re rich in fatty acids that tame artery inflammation to improve blood flow. A study in the journal Hypertension found that consuming 2 Tbs. daily lowers blood pressure by up to 15 points. Sprinkle flaxseeds on salads or roasted veggies.