We are hearing more and more about the importance of good cardiovascular health these days. Heart attacks and high blood pressure strike millions of people each year, and many don't even know they have a problem. That’s because it usually has no noticeable symptoms. They only way to know you have it is to have it checked. Blood pressure is checked using blood pressure gauges called sphygmomanometers. Blood pressure is measured during the heartbeat and between heartbeats. You get two numbers, the systolic, which is the pressure during the heartbeat, and the diastolic, which is the pressure between heartbeats. In a healthy blood pressure the systolic number can range from 90 – 140. The diastolic can range from 80 – 90. Anything higher than that is considered to be unhealthily high. High blood pressure (also called hypertension) increases your risk of a stroke and heart attack. It can also cause kidney failure. Things like high blood pressure and high cholesterol can be hereditary; if close relatives have them, your chances of having them are greater than if you have no family history of such things. Age is also a factor. The older you get, the more likely you are to develop cardiovascular disease of some sort. There are a number of risk factors you can control when it comes to high blood pressure and heart health, however. Weight is an important factor. Being overweight greatly increases your risk of high blood pressure. So does a lack of physical activity. Regular exercise and a healthy diet will go a long way towards lowering your blood pressure and your cholesterol. Cholesterol is important because high cholesterol often accompanies high blood pressure. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that collects in our blood vessels and obstructs the flow of blood. If blood vessels become completely blocked, it causes a heart attack. Cholesterol levels can be checked by a simple blood test. Continued cholesterol monitoring on a regular basis is very important. A diet that is low in fat and sodium is recommended to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Eat plenty of whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables. If you’re overweight, losing weight can go a long way toward getting your blood pressure into the healthy zone. Avoid alcoholic beverages- they are high in calories, and can also raise your blood pressure. Physical activity helps you lose weight, helps lower blood pressure, and helps lower cholesterol. It improves circulation, preventing the accumulation of cholesterol in your blood vessels. It burns fat, and cholesterol is fat. Regular physical activity is essential for good cardiovascular health. Don’t smoke. Smoking greatly increases your risk of cardiovascular disease. Finally, managing stress can go a long way toward lowering blood pressure. Take regular time for relaxation. Even a short break during a busy day can help. Take a few minutes to close your eyes and breathe deeply. Make your health a priority. Get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked on a regular basis, and take steps to maintain good cardiovascular health.