Cardiovascular specialists at Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital in Taiwan emphasize that adopting a proper medical perspective, adjusting diet, and managing lifestyle are crucial. Attention to daily routines can help patients stabilize blood pressure, significantly reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Emotional stability and the '3 less, 2 more' dietary principles
Vice Director Lam Dinh Quang stated that emotional stability is a key factor in heart disease treatment. 'Avoiding stress' often has a more significant impact than many realize. Consistently adhering to treatment plans, adjusting lifestyle, and avoiding unhealthy habits will yield effective long-term results.
Addressing patient concerns about 'bland food losing its appeal', nutritionist Truong Nha Phuong introduced the '3 less, 2 more' principle:
3 less: less seasoning, less processed foods, less oil and fat.
2 more: more fruits and vegetables, more fiber.
For fruit consumption, the expert recommends two portions daily, each about the size of a fist. It is best to eat whole fruits rather than drinking juice to avoid excessive sugar intake, which can impact blood sugar and weight.
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Eat more fruits, vegetables, and fiber to control blood pressure. Photo: Aboluowang
Beware of 'hidden' sodium in restaurant meals
Nutritionist Truong Nha Phuong warns that soups, broths, soy sauce, and bean paste are common 'sodium traps'. For frequent diners, it is crucial to follow the principle: 'Eat the solids, not the broth; eat the rice, not the sauce.' Instead, enhance flavors with natural seasonings like onion, ginger, garlic, and lemon.
However, she stressed that reducing salt intake does not mean eliminating it entirely. The body still requires about 6 g of salt daily to maintain normal functions.
Lowered blood pressure targets: early intervention is key
Cardiologist Tran Ky Tri noted a shift in high blood pressure treatment trends. The target for blood pressure control has been lowered from 140/90 mmHg to 130/80 mmHg. Early detection and intervention can significantly reduce the risk of stroke and severe cardiovascular diseases.
Doctor Tran also explained 'white coat syndrome', a condition where patient anxiety during clinic measurements causes elevated readings. Consequently, regular home blood pressure monitoring provides a more accurate reflection of actual health status.
The '722' rule: a long-term health defense
To ensure accurate and memorable readings, Doctor Tran Ky Tri shared the '722' rule:
7: Measure continuously for 7 days.
2: Measure at two times each day: after waking up and before going to sleep.
2: Take two measurements at each session, 1 minute apart, then average the values.
'High blood pressure is often the first domino in health decline, potentially leading to stroke, retinopathy, and kidney failure,' Doctor Tran warned.
Lifestyle management and treatment adherence
Beyond monitoring readings, factors like diet control, limiting alcohol, weight management, quitting smoking, and aerobic exercise significantly aid blood pressure control.
Crucially, patients must take medication exactly as prescribed by their doctor. Should side effects occur, they should consult a specialist immediately, never stopping or reducing dosage independently, as this can compromise treatment effectiveness.
My Y (Source: HK01)
