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Tension or HYPERTENSION

hypertensionI can’t count how many times in my 12 years of medical practice a patient with just a headache has eventually been diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension). Whenever a patient complains of a headache, I always make it a point to check their blood pressure (BP), as it is a very common symptom of fluctuating BP. This often presents around the temples but can also be felt at the back of the head (occipital region).

What is Blood Pressure?

The pressure exerted by the column of blood flowing in the arteries once it has been pumped by the heart is called systolic (higher value) blood pressure. Diastolic (lower value) BP refers to the resistance in the arteries, which is always present due to their elastic tone.

Blood Pressure Categories:

  • Normal: Up to 120/80 mmHg
  • Pre-Hypertensive: 130/90 to 140/90 mmHg
  • Hypertension: Above 140/90 mmHg

A person is diagnosed with high BP if three readings taken on separate days are consistently high.

BP - HypertensionSigns & Symptoms of Hypertension

If I have to look for signs of high BP, these symptoms should raise suspicion

  1. Headache
  2. Feeling of tiredness.
  3. Difficulty breathing
  4. Heaviness in the eyes / blurred vision.
  5. Irritability
  6. Severe cases: Heart attack or haemorrhagic stroke

What Causes High BP?

High BP is common in adults over 50 but is increasingly being diagnosed in younger people due to poor lifestyle choices, such as:

  • Lack of sleep—Irregular sleep cycles disrupt the circadian rhythm.
  • High salt intake—Excess salt from processed foods, snacks, pickles, and sauces.
  • Smoking—Nicotine constricts blood vessels, increasing BP.
  • Obesity—Being overweight adds strain to the heart.
  • Lack of exercise—Sedentary lifestyle leads to poor heart health.
  • Stress—From chaotic city traffic, financial strain, and work pressure.
  • Other Causes: BP can also rise due to secondary conditions like thyroid disorders and narrowing of arteries supplying the kidneys (Renal Artery Stenosis).

Why is it Important to Maintain Normal BP?

Persistently high BP damages the internal lining of blood vessels, gradually affecting the brain, kidneys, and eyes. This can lead to serious complications such as:

  • Stroke (brain damage due to reduced blood flow)
  • Kidney failure
  • Hypertensive retinopathy (damage to the eyes)

All of these complications can be prevented by keeping BP within the normal range.

Managing High BP Naturally

Since lifestyle choices are the single most important factor in controlling BP, here’s how you can manage hypertension without medication:

  • Sleep Better:
    • Aim to sleep by 11 PM and wake up by 6-7 AM to regulate your circadian rhythm.
    • Avoid using screens before bedtime to improve sleep quality.
  • Diet Adjustments:
    • Reduce salty foods such as crisps, salted nuts, pickles, and processed sauces.
    • Eat more potassium-rich foods like bananas, spinach, and lentils.
  • Exercise Regularly:
    • Engage in 45 minutes of brisk walking, 30 minutes of swimming or cycling, or 30 minutes of aerobics at least 5 days a week.
    • Strength training also helps improve circulation and heart health.
  • Manage Your Weight: 
    • If overweight, aim to lose 1-2 kg per month until you reach a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index) of 25.
  • Reduce Stress: 
    • Practise deep breathing or meditation daily.
    • Set realistic personal and professional goals to avoid unnecessary stress.
  • Stay Socially Connected:
    • Engage in social activities and maintain a healthy support system. A positive social life can improve mental health and reduce stress-induced BP spikes.

When to Consider Medication?

If lifestyle modifications do not lower BP within 6 months, it’s time to consult a doctor to explore medical options.

Additionally, if hypertension is caused by an underlying condition (such as thyroid disease or renal artery stenosis), treating the root cause can help normalise BP.

Even the word HyperTENSION (high BP) has ‘TENSION’ in it! Managing stress and adopting healthier lifestyle choices can significantly improve your heart health.

Have you successfully managed your BP through lifestyle changes? Share your experiences in the comments below!

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

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Why Does Your Body Need Antioxidants?

antioxidantsAntioxidants—also known as “free radical fighters”—have been making waves in the health and wellness industry. But what exactly do they do? Are they genuinely beneficial, or are they just another marketing buzzword? More importantly, is it better to get them from food or supplements? Let’s break it down.

Why Do We Need Antioxidants?

Free radicals are natural by-products produced by the body when processing food, particularly refined and processed foods, trans fats, artificial sweeteners, and certain additives. They are also generated due to environmental factors like pollution, smoking, exposure to pesticides, and even medical treatments such as chemotherapy.

If free radicals build up faster than the body can remove them, they cause oxidative stress, which can lead to cell damage, inflammation, and long-term health issues. This is where antioxidants come in—they help neutralise free radicals and protect cells from damage.

Best Natural Sources of Antioxidants

Different antioxidants serve different functions, so eating a varied diet is key. The best sources come from plant-based foods, particularly brightly coloured fruits and vegetables.

To naturally boost your antioxidant intake, try these simple dietary changes:

  • Eat a variety of fruit and veg – Include a portion in every meal and snack.
  • Sip on green or matcha tea – Packed with polyphenols that support cell health.
  • Spice it up – Turmeric, cumin, oregano, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon enhance flavour and antioxidant content.
  • Snack wisely – Opt for unsalted nuts and seeds, especially Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and almonds.
  • Don’t forget protein sources – Eggs, dairy, liver, and mushrooms contain key antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin A.

Should You Take Antioxidant Supplements?

While supplements may seem like a quick fix, they aren’t always necessary—and in some cases, they can do more harm than good.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) advises caution with high doses, as they can be harmful or interfere with medications. If you’re considering supplements, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional first.

There are some potential benefits for people at risk of age-related macular degeneration, but again, this should be discussed with a doctor. The best way to get antioxidants is through food. If your diet is lacking in fruit and veg, try starting with two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables daily before considering supplements.

Antioxidants play a crucial role in cell protection and overall health, but balance is key. Instead of relying on supplements, aim to eat a colourful, whole-food diet that provides a wide range of natural antioxidants.

Do you prioritise antioxidant-rich foods in your diet? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

#BeTheForce 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

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Important Exercises & Yoga Poses To Be Done During Pregnancy

yoga during pregnancyIn one of my articles, we explored how beneficial it is to follow yoga during pregnancy. In this article, I will highlight the prenatal yoga poses that can help you stay fit during pregnancy and support a smooth post-delivery recovery. Let’s dive right in!

Exercises & Yoga Poses To Do During Pregnancy

Start With Breathing Exercises
Before beginning, practice some mindful breathing:

  1. Sit comfortably, with your knees bent and your shoulders, head, and neck relaxed.
  2. Place one hand on your upper chest and the other just below your rib cage. This will allow you to feel your diaphragm move as you breathe.
  3. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Continue for 3-5 minutes.

1. Cat and Camel Pose

cat and camel

  1. Begin on your hands and knees, with your knees under your hips and your hands under your shoulders.
  2. Round your back towards the ceiling, tucking in your buttocks and slightly lowering your head.
  3. Return to a neutral position.
  4. Let your belly lower towards the floor, creating an arch in your back. Keep your head slightly raised, with your eyes looking forward.
  5. Alternate between these poses.

Tip: Use a folded towel under your knees if they hurt, or place fists instead of palms on the floor for wrist support.

2. Butterfly Pose

butterfly pose yoga during pregnancy

  • Sit with your spine and neck straight.
  • Bend both knees and bring the soles of your feet together, as close to the groin as possible.
  • Hold your feet firmly with your hands and keep your heels on the ground.
  • Place your elbows on your thighs.
  • Inhale deeply and press your thighs downward using your elbows.
  • Exhale as you raise your knees without support and release the pose.

3. Kegel’s Exercises

This exercise strengthens the pelvic floor muscles.

How to Perform:

  • Sit, stand, or lie down comfortably.
  • Contract your pelvic floor muscles as if stopping the flow of urine for 5 seconds.
  • Relax the muscles for 3 seconds.
  • Perform 5-10 repetitions per session, twice a day. Ensure you breathe normally throughout.

4. Goddess Pose

goddess pose pregnancy

  • Step your right foot back to a stride length and turn your toes out at a 45-degree angle.
  • Bend your knees deeply and lower your hips until they align with your knees.
  • Extend your arms to shoulder height and bend your elbows so that your fingertips point upwards.
  • Engage your core, draw your tailbone towards the floor, and keep your spine long.
  • Hold the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

5. Warrior Pose

warrior pose yoga during pregnancy

  • Stand with your feet roughly three feet apart.
  • Place your right foot in front of your left foot.
  • Extend your arms out to the sides, keeping them straight and palms facing down.
  • Turn your left foot out to the side and your right foot inward.
  • Lunge forward, bending your left knee, and keep your right leg straight.
  • Hold the pose, then return to the starting position and switch legs.

6. Walking

Walking is an excellent cardiovascular exercise for expecting mothers.

Tips:

  • Start with slow walks if you’re new to physical activity.
  • Walk for 30 minutes, three times a week.
  • Pair walking with other light exercises for better results.

If this article helped you, share your thoughts in the comments below. Explore more articles on Women’s Care here. To keep a track of your pregnancy, you can also download the GOQii App and access the Women’s Care Feature.

For more tips on how to manage your health during pregnancy, reach out to your GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

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Menstrual Pain: Every Woman’s Nightmare No more!!

woman-with-hot-water-bottleI know many women, especially adolescents, who don’t like ‘being a woman’ because of the pain during menstruation. If you are one of those or know such women, this article is for you.

Primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain) is a normal part of menstruation. It affects girls during adolescence and eases as they mature. It may be painful, but it is not harmful.

Prostaglandins (hormones that causes your uterus to contract during menstruation and childbirth) are responsible for the pain. This pain results from contractions of your uterus that occur when the blood supply to its lining (endometrium) is reduced. (But hey! It is a part of you, and it is important, so blame it, but accept it and get on with it).

menstrual cramps Image 1

Other factors include a uterus that tilts backward instead of forward, lack of exercise, psychological or social stress, smoking, drinking alcohol or being overweight.

Secondary dysmenorrhea is generally related to some kind of gynecological disorder. It is most likely to affect women during adulthood.

Causes

  1. Fibroids that develop within the uterine wall or are attached to it cause inflammation leading to pain.
  2. Adenomyosis – the tissue that lines the uterus (called the endometrium) begins to grow within its muscular walls. This makes the uterine walls thicker. It may lead to heavy or longer-than-usual menstrual bleeding, as well as pain during menstrual cycle or intercourse.
  3. A sexually transmitted infection.
  4. Endometriosis – fragments of the endometrial lining that are found on other pelvic organs.
  5. Pelvic inflammatory disease, primarily an infection of the fallopian tubes, but it can also affect the ovaries, uterus, and cervix. It is caused primarily by sexually transmitted infections that spread up from the opening of the uterus to these organs.
  6. An ovarian cyst or tumor is a sac filled with fluid that forms on or inside of an ovary, causing pain.
  7. The use of an intrauterine device (IUD), a birth control method, leads to painful menstruation, which decreases over time.

‘Pain’ is the body telling us that something is not right. So listen to what your body is telling you. While you must seek medical advice for secondary dysmenorrhea, consider the following as well.

Be comfortable with your body. Negative messaging at times can become part of the subconscious mind, which rejects the female body. So anything that reminds the body of being a ‘woman’ can hurt.

Have a balanced diet. Ensure your diet includes foods rich in Vitamin B12, D, omega-3 fatty acids and calcium. As an extra tip, ginger is a wonder herb that can effectively ease menstrual cramps as it lowers the levels of pain-causing prostaglandins.

A hot water bag relaxes the contracting muscles in your uterus.

Make sure your hemoglobin level is within the normal range by including iron rich foods along with foods high in Vitamin C in your everyday diet.

An orgasm can help relieve all kinds of pains. Before an orgasm, the uterus is more relaxed, and during climax, blood flow increases, helping to relieve the cramps. The endorphins released after sex will make you feel better instantly.

Eat 2tbs of flaxseeds every day during periods reduces prostaglandin levels in the body.

Keep yourself hydrated during your period (and otherwise too!).

Exercise increases the blood flow, which calms the pain naturally.

Be happy, and you will feel your body responding better and dealing better with pain during your period.

Yoga Postures to relieve menstrual pain

One Legged Pigeon Pose stretches the entire lower part of the body and stimulates the abdominal organs.

menstrual cramps- yoga pose 1

Matsyasana (Fish pose) is a backbend that stretches and stimulates the belly muscles.

menstrual cramps- yoga pose 2

JanuShirasana (One-legged Forward bend) massages the abdominal organs.

menstrual cramps-yoga pose 3

Dhanurasana (Bow pose) strengthens the abdominal muscles and stimulates the reproductive organs.

Menstrual cramps-Yoga pose 4

Bhujangasana (Cobra pose) stretches and tones the abdomen.

Menstrual Cramps-Yoga pose 5

Ustrasana (Camel pose) stretches and opens the front of the body.

menstrual cramps-yoga pose 6

Yoga is one of the means to reach your goal of painless menstruation. Don’t forget to respect your body and give it time to overcome the pain.

We hope this article provides valuable insights into managing menstrual pain and helps you feel more empowered during your menstrual cycle. Remember, it’s essential to listen to your body and seek professional advice when needed. Do you have your own tips or experiences to share? Let us know in the comments below! For further information or guidance, reach out to our certified experts by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

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