Stop the 'silent killer'

Unless you're tested for it, you usually won't know that you have high blood pressure. But, if you're overweight, a smoker, stressed out, a heavy drinker, and/or over the age of 35, you should at least have some suspicion.

To get your resting BP in check, it's important to perform a cardio workout at least three days a week, as this will dilate and relax your blood vessels and help your arteries become more flexible (which therefore reduces the amount of work your heart must do in order to pump blood). There are also certain foods you should include in your BP-lowering diet, as well as several you should avoid. Here's a look at a few of them.

Try to Eat ...

• Omega-3-rich oily fish
• Olives, mixed nuts, avocados, and other healthy-fat foods
  
• Potassium rich fruits such as apricots, oranges, bananas

Try to Avoid ...

• Processed meats and other high-salt foods
• Trans-fat-laden foods, such as bakery items and donuts
• Too much alcohol -- yes, a few drinks may benefit your heart, but too much constricts arteries