While many of us believe that high blood pressure occurs when we are older, up to 8% of pregnant women experience hypertension too. If you fall into this category, there are complications that can arise, including preeclampsia and kidney problems.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, here are five simple strategies that will help keep your blood pressure under control, ensuring you have a smooth pregnancy and birth.
Stay Active
Pregnant women who are sedentary have a higher risk of developing high blood pressure. So, to keep your blood pressure under control, staying active during your pregnancy is key. Not only can regular exercise increase blood circulation and reduce stress levels, physical activity will have a positive effect on your baby’s health outcome. Setting aside 30 minutes each day for exercise is the best place to start in lowering your blood pressure.
Follow a Balanced Diet
As you move through your pregnancy and your baby starts to grow, it may be time to put your feet up and take things easy. However, while you may not be as mobile as you once were, that’s not to say you shouldn’t be following a healthy, balanced diet. Instead of getting takeaways and eating junk food, you must eat more healthily and have plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and protein on your plate. A balanced diet can improve your mindset, aid weight loss, and boost cardiovascular health.
No Smoking or Alcohol
It goes without saying, you shouldn’t have any alcohol or smoke tobacco during pregnancy. Alcohol and smoking are key factors of high blood pressure. So, to keep your baby safe and healthy, you should give up smoking and cut out alcohol. If you are still smoking during your pregnancy, it’s advised to make an appointment with your doctor, who will provide advice and support on how to quit successfully.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure
If you have concerns about your blood pressure, keeping a close eye will put your mind at ease. Whether you’ve changed your diet, incorporated regular exercise into your routine, or quit smoking, there are devices that you can purchase at a discount chemist called Pharmacy Online that help you monitor your blood pressure. If you notice any changes or causes for concern, don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor.
Destress
Once you become pregnant, you will do everything you can to keep your growing baby happy and healthy. The last thing you want is to become stressed and anxious before giving birth. So, taking time to relax and unwind can relieve stress and help with anxiety. Many expectant mothers swear by yoga, which is a low-intensity workout that can not only boost your fitness, but keep stress levels at bay.
When you are expecting a child, the experience should be one to look forward to, rather than fear. If you have high blood pressure, there are many minor lifestyle changes you can make which can put you back in control and keep you and your baby happy and healthy.
