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Blood pressure tip: Get more potassium
Want to lower your blood pressure? Cut back on sodium in your diet and add more potassium. Sodium increases your blood pressure. Potassium can reduce the effects of sodium on blood pressure. Many fruits and vegetables are good sources of potassium, including bananas, strawberries, cantaloupe, spinach, peas and tomatoes.
Blood pressure tip: Get off the couch
If you're concerned about your high blood pressure, get moving. Regular moderate- to high- intensity workouts can lower your top blood pressure reading by about 11 mm Hg and the bottom number by about 5. Regular exercise also reduces stress and weight gain, which are known to be bad for your heart health. Need an idea? Try brisk walking for about 30 minutes most days of the week. Talk to your health care provider about starting an exercise program.
Blood pressure tip: Know alcohol limits
Having more than three drinks in one sitting temporarily increases blood pressure. Binge drinking can cause large and sudden increases in blood pressure and increase the risk of stroke. If you're a heavy or binge drinker, talk to your health care provider about how to reduce your drinking.
Body-weight training: Is it effective for strength training?
Body-weight training — Try out this alternative form of strength training.
Bridge pose
Try this simple yoga pose to increase the flexibility in your back.
Butter vs. margarine: Which is better for my heart?
Margarine usually tops butter for heart health. But not all margarines are created equal.
COVID-19 vaccines for kids: What you need to know
Learn about the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines for kids, the possible side effects, and the benefits of vaccination.
Caffeine content for coffee, tea, soda and more
Find out just how much caffeine is in coffee, tea, soda and energy drinks. You may be surprised at how much caffeine you're consuming.
Caffeine: Does it affect blood sugar?
For some people with diabetes, as much as one cup of coffee can cause higher or lower blood sugar levels. Learn how caffeine affects your blood sugar.
Can music help someone with Alzheimer's?
A Mayo Clinic specialist discusses the possible benefits of music for people with Alzheimer's disease.
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