Hypertension: How Less Salt and Healthier Meals Can Protect Your Heart

Managing hypertension involves more than taking prescribed medicine. Everyday choices, including salt intake, diet, exercise, sleep and stress management, can affect blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney problems. Health experts advise Nigerians to use less salt in cooking and avoid adding extra salt at the table. Adults should aim for less than one teaspoon of salt daily. Processed foods, instant noodles, bread, biscuits, sugary drinks and heavily fried meals may also contain high levels of sodium, sugar or unhealthy fats. Choose more fruits, vegetables, fish, lean meat, whole grains and local staples such as yam, millet, guinea corn and Ofada rice in moderate portions. Regular exercise, including brisk walking, can help. People diagnosed with hypertension should continue their prescribed medication and speak with a health professional before making treatment changes.

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