Blood Pressure

It is important that your blood pressure remains close to normal levels, ie 130/80 or lower. High blood pressure (hypertension) can also affect your kidneys and eyes leading to further damage. If your blood pressure is high, your blood vessels are under increased pressure. If left untreated over a long period of time, it can also lead to damage to the heart and large blood vessels, increasing your chances of heart attack or stroke.

If your blood pressure is too high, you may be prescribed tablets and given dietary advice to help lower it. There are many different types of blood pressure lowering tablets that may be used, but one type, called 'ACE inhibitors' (eg Ramipril, Perindopril, Captopril, Enalapril), seem to be particularly useful in protecting your kidneys and heart.

By lowering your salt intake in your diet you may help to reduce your blood pressure. You can lower your salt intake by:

• Not eating too many salty snacks (eg crisps and nuts).
• Not adding salt to your cooking (eg use herbs and spices to flavour food).
• Avoid adding salt to your food at the table.

You can also help to reduce your blood pressure if you:

• Increase your levels of physical activity.
• Lose some weight (if you are overweight).
• Stop smoking (if you smoke).
• Cut down your alcohol intake.