Saralnama
The American Heart Association updated blood pressure guidelines in August 2025. Adults should keep blood pressure below 120/80 mmHg, down from the earlier 130/90 mmHg. The guidelines stress lifestyle changes like healthy eating, less salt, more exercise, and weight loss. Losing 5% or more of body weight can lower blood pressure by 5 to 10 mmHg. Experts say this is very important for people with diabetes, as even slightly high blood pressure can harm their heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. For example, a diabetic weighing 80 kg can benefit from losing just 4 kg. Doctors recommend regular blood pressure checks, a DASH diet, reducing salt to under 1500 mg daily, and at least 150 minutes of exercise weekly. These steps help control blood pressure and reduce risks of heart and kidney problems in diabetics. (Updated 28 Aug 2025, 11:28 IST; source: link)