Although we know heart disease can start early in life and is related to our lifestyle habits, such as diet, it does not mean that dietary changes made later in life won’t help to reduce our risk. According to recent national survey data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, over 33% of adult Americans have high blood pressure and an additional 25% have what is called pre-hypertension.1 A blood pressure level of 140/90mmHg is considered high. Blood pressure between 120/80mmHg and 139/89mmHg is classified as pre-hypertension. People with pre-hypertension are likely to develop high blood pressure in the future. It has been estimated that among adults over 50, the lifetime risk of developing high blood pressure is 90%, with black Americans having higher blood pressure than non-blacks.1
Although genetics can play a role with hypertension, controllable lifestyle factors play a larger role. A substantial amount of research shows that reducing salt intake, increasing potassium, and eating an overall healthful diet like the DASH eating plan, which is lower in salt and rich in vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy and meat and whole grains, can be very beneficial.
There are lots of ways to take action and help you and your family get and stay on target. To learn more, read Salt Intake and Your Family .
1Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics – Update 2009, American Heart Association.