How to Lower your Blood Pressure –  6 top tips

1. Regular physical activity – Try to do some moderate-intensity activity every day and build up to at least 150 minutes per week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more.
2. Keep to a healthy weight – For some people, losing weight is all they need to do to get their blood pressure down to a normal level.
3. Eat a healthy balanced diet – Use the Eatwell guide to find out what to eat from different food groups for a healthy, balanced diet. Aim to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables each day.
4. Cut down on salt  -Do not cook with salt or add any to your food at the table, and cut down on processed foods, which contain a lot of salt.
5. Drink in moderation – If you drink alcohol, stick within the recommended guidelines of no more than 14 units per week and aim to have several alcohol-free days each week.
6. Take your medicines as prescribed  – Most people will need to take more than one type of medicine to control their blood pressure. Do not stop taking your medication without consulting with your GP first.