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Daily Habits for Better Blood Pressure

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider for medical decisions.

Most Important Things to Know:

Your daily habits can make a big difference in your blood pressure. Small changes in what you eat and how you move can add up to better health.

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Everyone's body responds differently to lifestyle changes. It may take time to see results, and that's normal.

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Changes that help most people:

  1. Eating less salt

  2. Moving your body more

  3. Eating healthy foods

  4. Reaching a healthy weight

  5. Drinking less alcohol or none at all

What You'll Learn on This Page:

Learn tips to make changes that stick

See which changes are proven to help most people

Learn about blood pressure remedies with mixed evidence

See where we got this information and find trusted sources

Making Changes That Last

Best Proven Daily Habits to Lower Blood Pressure

These methods are recommended by doctors and health experts based on the most current research. They have been carefully studied, and many people have seen improvements using these methods.​

Watch the Salt

Salt makes your body keep extra water and raises blood pressure. Eating less salt is the best way to lower your blood pressure. 

Move More

Moving your body often helps keep your blood pressure low and your heart healthy. Even a little exercise is better than none. Try to move your body for 30 minutes most days.

Make Smart Food Choices

Making smart food choices can lower your blood pressure as much as some medicines. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products, while cutting back on salty snacks and sweets, helps control blood pressure.

Aim For a Healthy Weight

Smart food choices lower your blood pressure and protect your health. Choosing fresh foods instead of packaged ones helps you eat less salt and sugar.

Cut Back on Alcohol

Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure. If you drink alcohol, less is better for your blood pressure and overall health.

You may have heard about other ways to lower blood pressure that aren't on our main list. In this section, we'll talk about some of these methods. It's important to know that:

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  1. Less research: These methods don't have as much scientific proof behind them as the ones in our main list.

  2. Might help, might not: Some people say these methods work for them, but we can't be sure they'll work for everyone.

  3. Possible risks: Some of these methods might be harmful. They could cause side effects or interact badly with medicines you're taking.

  4. Not recommended by most doctors: Because there isn't evidence that they work well, most doctors don't suggest these methods.

  5. Research is ongoing: Scientists are still studying many of these methods. What we know about them might change in the future.

  6. Talk to your doctor: If you're thinking about trying any of these, always talk to your doctor first. They can help you understand if it's safe for you.

  7. Don't replace proven methods: These shouldn't take the place of the methods we know work well, like the ones in our main list.

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As you read about these methods, remember to think critically. Just because something is "natural" or popular doesn't mean it's safe or effective. Your health is important, so it's best to stick with methods that doctors recommend.

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Other Blood Pressure Treatments: What to Know

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Magnesium

Magnesium might help lower blood pressure in some people. Several small studies show mixed results.

Magnesium pills can be dangerous if you have kidney problems or take certain medications.

Calcium

Taking calcium supplements does not help lower blood pressure enough to matter. Getting calcium from food is safer and better for your health than taking supplements.

Calcium pills can be dangerous if you have kidney problems. They can change how your medicines works.

Fish Oil

Fish oil supplements may lower blood pressure a small amount. Talk with your doctor about whether fish oil is right for you, since eating fish is often a better choice.

Fiber

Eating more fiber might lower blood pressure a little. Fiber is good for your digestion and overall health.

Folate (Folic Acid or B9)

Foods high in folate and folic acid pills might lower the top number (systolic) of your blood pressure.

Folic acid pills can change how your medicines work.

 

Some people can be allergic to folic acid supplements. Get help right away if you have signs of an allergic reaction:

  • Rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin

  • Wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat

  • Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking

  • Unusual hoarseness

  • Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat

Relaxation

Current research doesn't show that relaxation techniques reliably lower blood pressure. While some studies found small changes, the highest quality research suggests relaxation may not affect blood pressure at all.

Written by: 

Last Updated: January 16, 2025

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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