(HealthDayNews) -- A blood pressure reading that was once regarded as normal may now bear watching for signs of hypertension, according to Marion County Medical Center.
New guidelines issued by the National High Blood Pressure Education Program set lower targets for the treatment of hypertension. Any reading from 120/80 to 139/89 is now defined as pre-hypertension, requiring lifestyle changes.
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends the DASH diet, a regimen high in fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products. Restricted salt intake, weight loss and exercise are also advised.
