Arterial hypertension is a silent disease, and it is estimated that about 45% of the people who suffer from it are not aware of their condition.
Nipro reiterates its commitment to the Health and well -being of the population, promoting education and awareness of arterial hypertension. This condition, silent, but dangerous, has established itself as the main risk factor for developing cardiovascular diseases, responsible for millions of deaths every year in the world.
Arterial hypertension is one of the main threats to public health in Guatemala. According to data from the Ministry of Health, approximately 48% of the Guatemalan population over 18 suffers arterial hypertension. In addition, it is estimated that 45% of the people who suffer from it are not aware of their condition, which increases the risk of serious complications.
Arterial hypertension is defined as the sustained increase in the pressure exerted by blood against the walls of the arteries. Not presenting evident symptoms in many cases, usually goes unnoticed for years, until it generates complications such as heart attacks, strokes, renal insufficiency or eye damage.
Caring for food is key
One of the most influential factors in the development of this disease is food. What we eat daily directly impacts blood pressure and health levels. Therefore, Nipro calls for more conscious and healthy eating habits as part of a comprehensive prevention strategy.
Food recommendations:
A balanced, varied and natural diet is a powerful tool to prevent and control hypertension. Nipro recommends:
- Reduce salt intake (sodium): limit its consumption to less than 5 grams per day (a teaspoon).
- Avoid saturated fat and refined sugars, common in ultraprocessed foods.
- Prioritize the consumption of fiber -rich foods and essential nutrients, such as:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables: at least 4 to 5 daily portions of each group.
- Low fats in fat, such as natural yogurt or skim milk.
- Integral grains: oats, integral rice, quinoa, among others.
- Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas), nuts and seeds without added salt.
- Lean meats, skin without skin and fish rich in omega-3 such as salmon or sardine.
It is also important to avoid or moderate the consumption of processed foods, fast food, salty snacks, added sugars, refined flours, sugary drinks, alcohol and excess caffeine.
Other key tips for a healthy life:
- Stay well hydrated.
- Control portions to avoid supercharging.
- Choose healthy cooking methods such as steam, baked or the iron.
- Read the nutritional labels to identify high products in sodium, fats and hidden sugars.
Likewise, mineral deficiency such as potassium, magnesium and calcium can aggravate blood pressure. These nutrients help relax blood vessels and counteract the effects of sodium. To include them in the diet, food consumption such as bananas, spinach, avocado, broccoli, almonds and fortified dairy products are suggested.
“Food plays a fundamental role in the regulation of blood pressure; small daily decisions can generate great changes in health. A diet rich in potassium, magnesium and calcium is essential to take care of the heart and prevent diseases,” says Pamela Arias, Nugro’s nutritionist.
Nipro reaffirms its commitment to cardiovascular health, promoting awareness campaigns, access to reliable information and accompaniment to patients through advanced medical solutions.
Fountain. Nipro
