Managing blood pressure is key to living a long, healthy life. Having high blood pressure long-term increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and can damage vital organs, including the heart. But what’s tricky about high blood pressure is that it’s something that can sneak up on you. It happens slowly over time. That’s why it’s often called the “silent killer.” According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, half of all Americans have high blood pressure, but many people don’t even know they have it. Whether you currently have hypertension or are trying to avoid it, diet plays a major role. If you’re actively doing your best to keep your blood pressure in check, you likely know that it’s important to minimize foods and drinks like soda, alcohol, fatty meats and foods high in sodium. And you likely know that eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, plant-based proteins, lean meats and foods high in unsaturated fats are all important for managing blood pressure.But there’s one beverage that’s key for managing blood pressure that’s so basic it’s often overlooked: water! Here, cardiologists share how drinking water impacts blood pressure and what happens when you’re dehydrated. You’re definitely going to want a glass of water after reading this one.Related: The Popular Drink That Raises Blood Pressure Faster Than Salt
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Dr. Mark Houston, MD, FACP, a cardiologist and the director of the Hypertension Institute, reiterates that water is important for cardiovascular health. One important way drinking water impacts blood pressure is by reducing the risk of blood clots, something high blood pressure can cause.
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One general tip Dr. McGowan has for making sure you’re getting enough water by checking the color of your pee. If it’s light yellow, you’re drinking enough. If it’s dark yellow, that’s a sign you need to drink more water. Dr. Houston adds to this, saying, “One should drink at least half their body weight in pounds of water in ounces [a day].”
Related: The Commonly Overlooked Habit Cardiologists Say Is 'Crucial' for Heart Health
How Does Dehydration Impact Blood Pressure?
Dr. Houston explains that dehydration slows blood flow, which deprives organs and tissues of the oxygen they need to function. When this happens, he says it can lead to feeling dizzy and lightheaded.
“Decreased blood supply to the heart muscle can result in cardiac dysfunction with chest pain and shortness of breath,” he says.
Dr. McGowan adds to this, explaining that dehydration activates the body’s stress response, putting it in fight-or-flight mode. This, he says, leads to increased heart rate and the tightening of blood vessels.
Drinking enough water is a habit that’s so simple, it’s easy to neglect. But if you don’t do it, your entire body will suffer, including your cardiovascular system. Especially if you are trying to lower your blood pressure, drinking enough water is a key part of looking after your health.
Related: This Is the Worst Type of Meat for Heart Health, According to a Cardiologist
Sources:
Dr. Gary McGowan, MB, BCh, BAO, MSc, medical doctor and nutritionist specializing in preventive cardiology at Triage Method in IrelandDr. Mark Houston, MD, FACP, cardiologist and the director of the Hypertension InstituteOverview: High blood pressure.InformedHealth.orgWhat Is High Blood Pressure? National Heart, Lung, and Blood InstituteKelly, J., Hunt, B.J., Lewis, R.R., et al. (2004). Dehydration and venous thromboembolism after acute stroke.QJM. 97(5):293-6Staying Hydrated, Staying Healthy. American Heart AssociationHence then, the article about here s exactly what happens to your blood pressure when you drink water was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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