Hypertension High Blood Pressure - 2401 Words

Background Introduction Hypertension is abnormally high blood pressure; a diet high in salt may predispose to hypertension. An increase in levels of systolic and diastolic blood pressure has been associated with an increased risk of developing coronary heart disease (CHD), cerebral vascular disease (stroke) and peripheral vascular disease. Within the western countries, those associated with a higher economic status, hypertension accounts for around 17% of deaths. A positive correlation between intake of sodium and hypertension rates has been found, suggestions for this correlation include a reduced urinary sodium excretion and fluid retention causing hypertension. (Mann, Truswell, 2012, pp. 336-338). Blood pressure is measured by†¦show more content†¦The CDCP (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention) 2014 found that 1 in 3 adults have hypertension. Although public awareness is increasing less than half of all suffers report not having their condition under control (Marsh , Rizzo, 2014). The more body weight an individual has also been shown to increase blood pressure, even when an overweight individual has a low sodium diet. DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) trials have been carried out to explore the potential of modifying foods opposed to solely reducing salt intake to lower blood pressure. The best results were found in a diet consisting highly in fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy, low salt, and high amounts of calcium, potassium and magnesium which are known to have blood pressure lowering outcomes (Mann Truswell, 2012, pp. 336-338). Explanations for the high correlation between obesity and hypertension include an increase in volume of blood due to increased salt retention which is attributed to an antinatriuretic effect in increased insulin levels, hormone level changes may effect blood pressure regulation, and high levels of salt intake combined with low physical activity may also contribute (Barasi, 2007). The diet currently consumed by the client consists of ready meals, takeaways and restaurant foods. All of these foods contain hidden salt often used to enhance flavours. Ready meals in particular are