Which lifestyle change is most beneficial for managing hypertension?

Regular exercise and a healthy diet are crucial for managing hypertension because they address the underlying factors that contribute to elevated blood pressure. Engaging in regular physical activity helps to strengthen the heart, enabling it to pump blood more efficiently and reduce overall pressure in the arteries. Additionally, a healthy diet, particularly one that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low in processed foods, can help lower blood pressure levels.

Diets that include specific components, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, emphasize the importance of nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which have been shown to support heart health and lower blood pressure. Moreover, reducing sodium intake through dietary choices is known to directly impact blood pressure positively.

In contrast, options that involve increased salt intake, continued smoking, or excessive alcohol consumption do not promote cardiovascular health and can worsen hypertension. Increased salt intake is directly linked to higher blood pressure, while smoking introduces harmful substances into the body, negatively affecting blood vessel integrity. Excessive alcohol can lead to an increase in blood pressure and contribute to various health issues, compounding the risks associated with hypertension. Therefore, adopting a lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a healthy diet is the most effective approach for