In addition to medication, what is an important lifestyle modification for a patient with hypertension?

Regular physical exercise is an essential lifestyle modification for patients with hypertension due to its multiple cardiovascular benefits. Engaging in consistent physical activity helps to lower blood pressure by improving blood vessel function, enhancing heart efficiency, and aiding weight management. Exercise contributes to overall cardiovascular health by reducing arterial stiffness and promoting better blood flow, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with high blood pressure.

Additionally, regular exercise can help mitigate other risk factors associated with hypertension, such as obesity, stress, and poor cholesterol levels. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week for optimal heart health.

In contrast, increased sodium intake is detrimental as it can exacerbate hypertension by causing the body to retain more fluid, thereby raising blood pressure. A high carbohydrate diet could also contribute negatively to the condition, especially if it leads to weight gain and insulin resistance, which are risk factors for hypertension. Lastly, increased stress levels have been shown to negatively impact blood pressure, making stress management a critical component of hypertension treatment, but not a direct lifestyle modification like exercise.