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Diabetes and Hypertension
High blood pressure (or hypertension) and diabetes often occur together. One theory as to their link is that both conditions share common risk factors such as obesity, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle. It is estimated that two out of every three people with diabetes also report having high blood pressure.
High blood pressure is defined as consistent readings that exceed 120/80 (systolic/diastolic pressure).
The American Diabetes Association recently updated its Standards of Care in Diabetes which referenced the importance of managing cardiovascular risk factors (ie: hypertension) alongside diabetes treatment.
One key recommendation made was that blood pressure should be taken at every routine clinical exam for people with diabetes, or at least a minimum of every six months.
At Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology, our team of board-certified endocrinologists guide patients through their diabetes treatment to help them lead the fullest, most active life possible despite the challenges of this chronic disease and accompaniments like high blood pressure.
Here are some tips that our diabetes experts recommend for helping to improve hypertension while also helping to promote healthy blood glucose levels:
- Get plenty of physical activity, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week for most adults
- Speak with your physician about losing weight if overweight and about what your target goal weight should be
- Eat a heart-healthy diet full of whole grains, brightly-colored fruits and vegetables, and lean meats and proteins
- Use herbs and spices to enhance food instead of excess sugar, sodium and fats
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol consumption
If your high blood pressure persists despite healthy lifestyle changes, your physician may suggest medication to help lower it.
At Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology, all of our treatment plans are personally tailored to best meet your unique healthcare needs. In addition to diabetes management, we also offer heart disease prevention and weight loss counseling services.
Contact Us to Help Manage your Diabetes, Osteoporosis and Thyroid Conditions
If you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists at Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology and discover how our diabetes services and other endocrinology therapies can help you lead a full and active life, please contact us at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.
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