What's your number?

It's already February and Valentine's Day is almost here.  Do you know your number?  No, we are not talking about the movie titled "What's Your Number."  Instead your blood pressure numbers such as systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) in blood pressure measurement.  Normal blood pressure is defined as a systolic BP between 100-119 mm Hg in adults over age 18. Pre-hypertension is present when measured blood pressures are between  120-139 mm Hg systolic or between 80-89 mm Hg diastolic.  Basically, when either the systolic pressure exceeds 140 mm Hg or the diastolic exceeds 90 mm Hg high blood pressure is present in the individual.

If you have diabetes it is imperative you keep your blood pressure in the normal range.  High blood pressure is dangerous and can affect the heart, kidneys, retina, brain, circulatory system, and other organs.

Stress and extra weight can increase your blood pressure.  When an individual is getting plenty of sleep their cortisol levels drop which assist in lowering blood pressure.  The side effects of high levels of the stress hormone cortisol promote insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance.  Therefore, exercise and plenty of rest aid in lowering your numbers.

This Valentine's Day be smart and take care of your heart!