You probably don't give your blood pressure much thought, except when your doctor wraps that velcro cuff around your arm, and pumps it full of air until you feel like your bicep is about to explode. The the doc will tell you it's low, or normal, or if your blood pressure is high, they'll tell you to keep an eye on it. Then you leave, and don't think about it until the next time you have it checked, right? I am hear to tell you that it is never to early to think about your blood pressure. High blood pressure from your young years 20s, 30s, and 40s can cause a slew of health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure later in life. Since you're all such health-conscious folks, here are so simple things you can do to maintain a healthy blood pressure:

1. Have your blood pressure checked regularly. Your shooting for the top number (Systolic) to be 120 or less, and the lower number (Diastolic) to be 80 or less. Normal blood pressure is read as 120 over 80, but as soon as those numbers start to increase, you're on your way to high blood pressure.
2. Think about your diet. I'm with you when it comes to craving salty foods, but too much sodium is no good. Shoot for a total of 2,300 mg or less [1] (that's equal to 1 teaspoon of salt). Be on the lookout for pre-packaged foods, soups, sauces, and cheese (they have obnoxiously high amounts of sodium). Instead of sprinkling mountains of salt on your food, add flavor with herbs, spices, lemon juice, garlic, or ginger instead.

Your heart wants to know what else you should do so .



3. Chill out. Stress and anxiety can contribute to your high blood pressure so if you feel wired on a daily basis, take more walks [2], do Yoga, take baths, light aromatherapy candles, take some time off, or speak with a therapist to help resolve stress.
4. One drink is enough. I'm all for letting loose with a glass of wine or cocktail, but too much alcohol consumption may also contribute to high blood pressure.
5. Step on a scale. Not only will being overweight make you feel tired and self-conscious, but you guessed it - it can also lead to high blood pressure. Make sure you maintain a healthy weight.
6. Thin isn't the same as fit. A slender figure can be good for your health, but make sure you include cardio workouts that get your heart pumping every week. You know what they say, "Use it or lose it."

Source [3]