We have created a set of easy-to-use resources to help you understand, manage, and monitor your blood pressure while supporting a healthy lifestyle. On this page, you will find information about:
- an introduction to healthy lifestyle and blood pressure
Download: all resources on this page are available to download in Word or PDF. We also provide Easy Read versions which may help support people with learning disabilities, autism, or cognitive disabilities but many people will find them useful.
- Patient information - an introduction to a healthy lifestyle (PDF)
- Patient information - an introduction to a healthy lifestyle (Microsoft Word)
- Easy read - looking after your blood pressure (PDF)
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An introduction to a healthy lifestyle and blood pressure
Blood pressure shows how hard your heart must work to move blood around your body. High blood pressure raises your chance of having a stroke, heart attack, or kidney problems. Living a healthy life helps keep your blood pressure at a safe levels. This is good for your heart and body. Here's why:
- It helps your blood pressure stay in a healthy range.
- Unhealthy habits can make your heart work too hard and can raise your blood pressure. Unhealthy habits include: eating too much salt, not moving enough, drinking too much alcohol, and/or smoking,
- High blood pressure can harm your body, even if you don’t feel any different. It is known as the silent killer because it can be symptomless.
- Being healthy might help you avoid needing medicine. Small changes, like eating better and moving more, can lower your blood pressure. You may feel better, sleep better, and have more energy.
- A healthy lifestyle can help with other health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or being overweight.
- A healthy lifestyle is essential for people who are more at risk. People at higher risk of high blood pressure can include older adults, people from South Asian and black African or Caribbean heritage, and those with a family history of high blood pressure.
You can watch Dr Neil Chapman from UCLPartners talk about Lifestyle and blood pressure on YouTube using this link.