Avoid the silent killer

Many adults have high blood pressure (a reading of at least 140/90mmHg) yet they are not aware. Most people don’t bother to get regular checks, yet blood pressure can affect you at any age. Often called the ‘silent killer’, high blood pressure is the main risk factor for strokes, heart disease and kidney failure, so it’s worth having it checked regularly by a doctor, or you could buy a home kit and do it yourself. It’s best to check blood pressure at regular intervals, preferably on waking up and at the end of the day.

An optimal blood pressure reading is 120/80mmHg. If your blood pressure is high there are certain things you can do to lower it.

*Have no more than 6g of salt a day. Beware of hidden salt in bread, cereal and ready meals.

*Eat at least five portions of fruits and vegetables a day, but ideally get seven to nine.

*Be as active as you can in everyday life – even brisk walking five days a week helps get blood pressure down.

*Cut down on alcohol. Drink no more than two units a day.