Lifestyle modifications for hypertension

Any approach to antihypertensive therapy should include lifestyle modifications. In the beginning, emphasis should be on weight loss and exercise, along with moderation of alcohol use and cessation of smoking. Patients should be encouraged to consume fresh rather than processed (and thus high-salt) foods and to limit use of salt in cooking and at the table. Even if patients eventually require antihypertensive medications, lifestyle modifications should continue, since there is evidence that such measures minimize the number and dose of medications required.