Weight loss and blood pressure are closely related, with a reduction in weight often leading to a reduction in blood pressure. In this blog, we will discuss the science behind this connection and why weight loss is an effective way to lower blood pressure.
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to reduce your blood pressure and lower your risk of these conditions.
When you gain weight, particularly around your midsection, your body produces more insulin, which can cause your blood pressure to rise. Excess weight also increases the resistance of your blood vessels, making it harder for your heart to pump blood and further increasing your blood pressure.
On the other hand, when you lose weight, you reduce the amount of insulin your body produces and reduce the resistance of your blood vessels. This leads to a decrease in blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.
In addition to reducing insulin levels and blood vessel resistance, weight loss can also improve other factors that contribute to high blood pressure, such as reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
So, how much weight loss is needed to lower blood pressure? A meta-analysis of 40 studies found that a weight loss of 5-10% of your body weight was enough to significantly reduce systolic blood pressure (the top number) by an average of 4-8 mm Hg.
In conclusion, weight loss is an effective way to lower blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. It is important to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity, along with other lifestyle changes recommended by your doctor or an Online Personal Fitness Trainer. If you are struggling to lose weight, seek help of a healthcare professional or fitness trainer.
