High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major global health concern and a leading cause of heart disease and stroke. Traditionally, doctors have monitored two numbers when measuring blood pressure: systolic (the pressure when the heart beats) and diastolic (the pressure when the heart rests between beats).
For years, maintaining diastolic pressure between 70-90 mmHg was considered important for heart health.
However, a new study by researchers at NUI Galway, involving data from over 47,000 patients worldwide, challenges this long-held belief. The study found that lower diastolic pressure may not be as dangerous as previously thought.
Instead, the real concern lies with high systolic pressure—anything above 120 mmHg—which significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Based on these findings, researchers suggest that efforts should focus on keeping systolic pressure between 100 and 130 mmHg rather than worrying about diastolic pressure. This could simplify treatment plans and lead to better prevention of heart-related complications.
If widely adopted, this approach could change the way doctors manage hypertension and reduce the number of heart attacks and strokes caused by high blood pressure.
While medication plays a role in blood pressure management, lifestyle changes are just as important. Here are some key ways to help control or prevent high blood pressure:
- Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts extra strain on the heart and raises blood pressure. Keeping a healthy weight can reduce this risk.
- Eating a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy helps lower blood pressure.
- Reducing Salt Intake: Too much salt can tighten blood vessels, leading to higher blood pressure. Experts recommend keeping daily salt intake below 2,300 mg.
- Staying Active: Regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, can help maintain a healthy weight and lower blood pressure.
- Limiting Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure. Health guidelines suggest men should have no more than two drinks per day and women no more than one.
- Quitting Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases blood pressure. Stopping smoking improves overall heart health.
- Managing Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help manage stress.
- Regular Monitoring: High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Routine checks help catch any issues early, making treatment more effective.
This research not only improves our understanding of blood pressure but also highlights the importance of focusing on systolic pressure. By following healthy habits and working with healthcare providers, people can take control of their blood pressure and improve their overall well-being.
As new insights continue to shape medical guidelines, this shift in focus could lead to better treatment strategies and improved health outcomes for millions worldwide.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that could increase high blood pressure risk, and people with severe high blood pressure should reduce coffee intake.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and results showing plant-based foods could benefit people with high blood pressure.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
