5 natural reasons people have high blood pressure

High blood pressure (hypertension) is common among those above 50 and many think it is as a result of overthinking. HBP can be caused by many reasons including:

Overweight or obesity: Extra weight leads to changes in blood vessels, kidneys, and hormonal systems, increasing blood pressure.

Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of exercise can cause weight gain and reduced fitness, contributing to high blood pressure.

Salt intake: Consuming excessive amounts of salt can lead to fluid retention and raised blood pressure

Insufficient potassium: Imbalances in potassium levels can impact blood pressure regulation.

Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol use has been associated with increased blood pressure, particularly in men.

Stress: Temporary increases in blood pressure can occur due to stress, although sustained stress management is still debated.

Chronic conditions: Kidney disease, diabetes, and sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure.

Pregnancy: High blood pressure is more common in pregnant women, particularly in gestational hypertension.

Dehydration: Low potassium levels due to dehydration can contribute to high blood pressure.

Smoking: Nicotine constricts blood vessels temporarily, raising blood pressure, and smoking damages blood vessels.

Air pollution: Exposure to pollutants like fine particulate matter can increase blood pressure.

Poor sleep patterns: Unpredictable schedules, holding urine, and sleep apnea can negatively influence blood pressure.