Energy balance
Weight reduction significantly lowers blood pressure in individuals with high-normal diastolic blood pressure, producing a net reduction of 2.3 mm Hg in diastolic and 2.9 mm Hg in systolic pressure over 18 months.
If you have high-normal blood pressure, losing weight is the most effective non-drug strategy available. This study showed that losing about 4kg (9lbs) over 18 months, achieved through dietary changes and brisk walking, significantly lowered blood pressure. Supplements and stress management techniques did not show significant blood pressure benefits in this specific population, so focus your efforts on sustainable weight loss.
Weight reduction intervention produced weight loss of 3.9 kg (P<.01), diastolic blood pressure change of -2.3 mm Hg (P<.01), and systolic blood pressure change of -2.9 mm Hg (P<.01).
Why this rating
Randomized control multicenter trial with high compliance and blinded outcome measurement.
Source
The Effects of Nonpharmacologic Interventions on Blood Pressure of Persons With High Normal Levels
Paul K. Whelton · JAMA · 1992
DOI 10.1001/jama.1992.03480090061028
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