Reading our blood pressure measurements is easy right? It’s all about two numbers – if they are low, everything is all right, if they are high, we should take action. But what is the meaning of the first number (systolic) and the second number (diastolic) in our blood pressure measurement?
Let’s look at these values today and find out what they say about our blood and heart health.
The American College of Cardiology states that normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg. If your blood pressure readings show higher numbers, you most likely have elevated or hypertension blood pressure.
What does the systolic value stand for? What is the meaning of the diastolic number? Let’s get right into that!
Systolic blood pressure
The first number of your blood pressure measurement (120/80 mm Hg) is called systolic blood pressure. Systolic blood pressure measures the pressure your blood is exerting on the arteries’ walls when the heart beats. This number is given most of the importance, as it reflects the risk for cardiovascular disease. For most people, systolic blood pressure rises steadily with age, if no measurements are taken against it. A good systolic blood pressure level is smaller than 120 mm Hg
Diastolic blood pressure
The second number (120/80 mm Hg) indicates how much pressure your blood is pressing against the artery walls, while the heart is resting between beats. A good diastolic level is smaller than 80 mm Hg. The easiest way to improve your blood pressure levels is a healthy diet, enough movement, no drug consumption (alcohol, smoking), and a healthy weight.
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This short guide gave you a good understanding of the meaning of these two values. It’s important to understand how our body works in order to have the ability to take care of the one and only body we have.
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