Doctor's medication warning to people with high blood pressure and cholesterol
A cardiologist has a warning to people who are prescribed medication for high blood pressure or high cholesterol and says there are simple changes people can make
A heart specialist has warned people taking medication for common conditions including high blood pressure. Dr Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, a cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic, warns that whilst "prevention" may appear "difficult" it's simpler than "treating heart disease."
Fortunately, preventing the condition - which impacts millions globally - can be as straightforward as adjusting your diet or increasing physical activity - even gentle exercise such as walking.
Do you have high blood pressure or cholesterol?
Encouraging people to incorporate these straightforward modifications into their daily lives to enhance their wellbeing, he tells those who are "prescribed medication for high blood pressure or high cholesterol" to help them "avoid the risk of a heart attack and follow your doctor's orders.
He said: "Take those medications, check your numbers and be sure that all those factors are well under control", notes the Mayo Clinic News Network.
What are the risk factors of high blood pressure?
- your age – you're more likely to get high blood pressure as you get older
- having close relatives with high blood pressure
- your ethnicity – you're at higher risk if you have a Black African, Black Caribbean or South Asian ethnic background
- having an unhealthy diet – especially a diet that's high in salt
- being overweight
- smoking
- drinking too much alcohol
- feeling stressed over a long period
Cardiologist tips for a healthier life
In his recommendations, he suggests that individuals should aim to eat more vegetables and fruits to maximise the vitamins and minerals in their diet, which will not only boost energy levels but will also benefit heart health.
Opt for whole grains when possible for their fibre and nutrient content, and select healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated options, reports Bristol Live.
A prime example of this is the avocado. A gut health expert previously suggested that an avocado a day could keep the doctor at bay. Dr Steven Gundry states: "Avocados have become a trendy health food, but the truth is it's an incredible superfood for your health. "
Encouraging people to "start incorporating it into your diet today", he claims they can "help you lose weight" adding: "Avocados help you absorb the nutrients in food" with it boasting "great monounsaturated fat and are rich in prebiotic fibres".
These compounds actually help you lose weight. His additional advice includes consuming low-fat proteins, lean meat, poultry, fish and legumes and cutting down on salt intake to aid in reducing blood pressure.
Portion control is also recommended, ensuring any indulgences are "occasional", emphasising the importance of moderation. "Trying to eat healthier a little bit at a time, to move around through the day, avoiding sitting for too long," the doctor concluded.