For most middle-aged and older adults, consistently monitoring blood pressure levels is of utmost importance. However, a recent study featured on Science Daily reports that simultaneously controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels may be more effective at lowering heart disease risk.
Researchers examined data on approximately 17,000 American adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. Aside from blood pressure and cholesterol levels, factors such as age, race, lifestyle, and primary health concerns were also taken into account.
The researchers found that monitoring blood pressure levels may lower the risk of heart disease by 25 percent, while managing cholesterol levels in people with hypertension may reduce the risk by 35 percent. Doing both, however, may cut the risk by half or even more.
This goes to show that combining two or more healthy activities may have a significant impact on your health. Make sure you do regular checkups, maintain healthy eating habits, and squeeze in regular exercise in your daily routine.
(Photo by Pete via Flickr Creative Commons)
