Hi Nate,

I agree with your doctor.  The Joint National Committee defines four blood pressure categories for adults.  The more pressure against your artery walls the greater potential for damage - regardless of your size.

Very High Range - Stage 2 Hypertension
Systolic (top) blood pressure 160 mm Hg or high
Diastolic (bottom) blood pressure 100 mm Hg or higher
If in this range you have hypertension (high blood pressure).

High Range - Stage 1 Hypertension
Systolic (top) blood pressure 140 - 159 mm Hg
Diastolic (bottom) blood pressure 90 - 99 mm Hg
If in this range you have hypertension (high blood pressure).

Caution Range - Prehypertension
Systolic (top) blood pressure 120 - 139 mm Hg
Diastolic (bottom) blood pressure 80 - 89 mm Hg
Take action!

Normal Range - Normal
Systolic (top) blood pressure below 120 mm Hg
Diastolic (bottom) blood pressure below 80 mm Hg
Perfect!

All the best,

Lisa Nelson RD

7 Natural Ways to Lower Blood Pressure

Nate

11/20/09 12:59pm

thank you so much for your answer.... are there alternative ways to lowering BP.  I have tried the pharmacy route and there are so many side effects.

Lisa Nelson, Health Pro

11/20/09 4:09pm

Hi Nate,

 

The most effective way to lower blood pressure is to adopt the DASH diet.  You learn more about it here - Use the DASH Diet to See Results in Just 2 Weeks

 

Here's a link to a variety of information additional options to promote a lower blood pressure - Diet and Lifestyle Changes to Lower Blood Pressure.

 

All the best,

Lisa Nelson RD

7 Natural Ways to Lower Blood Pressure