Impact of Diet and Lifestyle Factors on Hypertension

High blood pressure is a long term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. Excess body fat is a predominant cause of hypertension with additive effects of dietary salt, alcohol, and physical inactivity. Long term high blood pressure however, is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. Controlled trials in hypertensives show blood pressure lowering effects of supplemental potassium, fibre, n-3 fatty acids, diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in saturated fats. The objective of this study is to know the dietary pattern of hypertensive persons. A questionnaire was designed to collect the data about dietary information, food frequency table and anthropometric measurements. Sleep apnea and chest pain were commonly observed in the hypertensives. The subjects were counselled and educated to follow a well balanced diet and restrict or lower salt intake, avoid salt at the table and sodium rich foods and to be engaged in daily physical activity.