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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What is hypertension?

    Related Topics
    Cardiology & Vascular Health Hypertension/High Blood Pressure
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    Chris Fonda

    Dietitian, Nutritionist, Sports Dietitian

    As an Accredited Sports Dietitian, APD and athlete (springboard diver), Chris has both professional and personal experience in sport at the sub-elite and elite level.Chris … View Profile

    Hypertension is often termed the “silent” disease which often a precursor to a heart attack or stroke. Hypertension (also known as high blood pressure) is the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as it flows through.

    Over time, if this force is kept constant, the artery walls can thicken reducing the elasticity of the artery wall further increasing blood pressure. Too much salt is also a cause of high blood pressure. A diet high in salt or salty foods actually causes the body to hold onto more water to try and dilute the salt in the body. This extra water increases the volume of the blood which can put more pressure on the artery walls.

    If high blood pressure is not delt with properly, it can lead to cardiovascular complications. If you have high blood pressure or know someone who does, consult an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD). APDs are experts in all things food and nutrition and can help you develop a healthy eating plan to lower your blood pressure. You can find an APD at www.daa.asn.au

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