I am 67, BP 154/84 at rest. I weigh 200 and am 5 2 I work out 4 days a week aerobics and weight machines at the gym in a senior program, 45 min each day and feel no distress or shortness of breath. I take a very low dose water pill, hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg. My blood sugar is normal. I want to lower my BP with diet and exercise and don t want to take any more BP medications. Is this a good course of action? I just started this exercise program and a diet that excludes almost all bread and starches. I also meditate at least 30 min a day.
Hello! Welcome and thank you for asking on Chat Doctor! I read carefully your question and would explain that a lot of physical activity would be very helpful in lowering your blood pressure. Besides, it would also help you lose some pounds, which would also contribute in a better management of your blood pressure. So I would encourage you to continue this exercise program. Regarding your diet modifications, I would recommend to maximally reduce salt and caffeine intake. Your blood pressure is just stage I hypertension, and with these lifestyle modifications, there you have still chances to have a normal blood pressure without medication. Hope to have been helpful! Greetings!