As a 26-year-old sparkling with Black girl magic in all the ways only Black girls can, I haven’t given a single drop of thought to my blood pressure.
It’s not something I’m proud to say, especially since I’m in medical school.
But, we are all family here, right?
But, since we are all family, it’s time to gather around our virtual kitchen table and have a chat.
Deemed the “silent” killer by the American Heart Association, African-Americans are more likely to develop high blood pressure at an earlier age which may lead to a stroke or heart attack in the future.
Have you given your older self a name yet? It helps to keep things in perspective.
So, my name is Isabelle but the older version of me is named Celestine.
Celestine’s black has not cracked and she is aging like Gabrielle Union.
She is married (and hopefully to someone rich who looks like Michael B Jordan…specifically, Creed II’s Michael B. Jordan) and is a popping physician.
Celestine also can show her children that she’s “still got it,” by smoking them in a fencing match.
Despite all the statistics, she does not have high blood pressure because she took care of herself as best as she could in her twenties. Now, she is free to folic and does whatever she pleases because her body is in tip-top shape.
So, what’s your older person’s name?
What are you doing about your blood pressure to make sure that your older self is good?
Check Your Family History
Your family members may be open to speaking about their blood pressure. Or, they may tell you that instead of asking about their blood pressure, you should focus on *insert disrespectful, but on-point Black parental diss here.* Your family members may even tell you that you are, in fact, the source of their high blood pressure.
But, it’s worth a shot to have the conversation.
Why have this potentially uncomfortable conversation? Genetics! Research has found that high blood pressure often runs within the family. So, make sure that you know how your genetic cards are stacked for or against you.
Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly
Your blood pressure should be checked at your annual physical. But, early detection is key! It may be more beneficial for you to check your blood pressure at home regularly versus getting your blood pressure checked periodically at the physician’s office.
Mayo Clinic has dope guidelines concerning checking and monitoring your blood pressure.
Read Your Food Labels, Friend!
Now, I don’t know about you. But, just like I rarely give any thought to my blood pressure, I usually don’t check my food labels. But, it’s time to get on a new wave. While we may hear our aunties and uncles complain about all the things they can’t eat, we may act as if we will never get old.
But, again, that’s why you have an elder name (have you thought of it yet?).
Even when that meal is hitting, it does matter – especially salt which can contribute to high blood pressure. If you can’t find the label on a food, try using a food tracking app to log how much salt you have ingested for the day.
But, first, make sure to consult with your doctor first before making any major dietary changes.
What are some ways that you maintain a healthy blood pressure?
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