he trends are troubling: Many adults don't know they have high blood pressure, and new data show that less than half of older Americans with hypertension check their blood pressure regularly. Knowing your BP, and the health risks linked to it, can save your life. Start the year off right with this advice from the American Heart Association: Check your BP at home. Place bottom edge of Sit comfortably for at least five minutes with back straight and supported, feet flat on the floor, and left arm on a flat surface at heart level. No talking! When you're relaxed, take at least two readings one minute apart at the same time each day. Record all results. To help keep BP in check, eat plenty of vegetables and fruits and limit sugary and highly processed foods, exercise regularly, manage weight, don't smoke, and get 7 hours or more of sleep each night.
