Hi, thank you for your question. Blood pressure reading shows 2 numbers. The first number is the systolic pressure, recording the pressure inside your artery when the heart contracts and pumps blood to other parts of the body. The second number is the diastolic pressure, recording the pressure inside your artery when the heart relaxes and starts to fill with blood.

A normal blood pressure is <120/80mmHg. Prehypertension is when the systolic blood pressure is 120-139mmHg and the diastolic pressure 80-90 mmHg. Hypertension is when the systolic blood pressure is >140mmHg and the diastolic pressure is >90mmHg. Pre-hypertension occurs when your blood pressure is raised but not to the extent of hypertension. It is considered as a high normal blood pressure.

However, pre-hypertension still puts you at risk of hypertension and other complications. Therefore, you should make wise lifestyle choices. First of all, eat a healthy diet. Consume a diet rich in wholegrain, fresh fruits and vegetables. Limit your intake of food high in saturated fats and trans fat. For example, full-fat dairy products, red meat, margarine, cookies, cakes and deep-fried food. Cut down intake of salt and sugar.

You should also exercise regularly. It is recommended that you exercise at least 30 minutes 5 times per week. Some moderate exercise includes brisk walking, swimming and riding a bicycle. Maintaining a healthy weight is important as well. Aim to maintain your BMI at <25, waist measurement <40 inches (for men), <35 inches (for women). This can be achieved by eating healthily and exercising regularly.

Next, quit smoking. You can use nicotine patches or chewing gums to help you quit smoking. Furthermore, it is important to learn to cope with stress and consume alcohol in moderation. Lastly, go for regular health screenings to get your blood pressure checked regularly.

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