Studies have shown that you’re twice as likely to have high blood pressure (ie: it’s consistently at or above 140/90) if your BMI is 30 or higher (visit www.bmicalculator.co.uk).

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure

Regular brisk walks can lower the top number (systolic) of your blood pressure reading by almost eight points and the lower figure (diastolic) by six. ‘Regular exercise strengthens the heart so that it can pump more blood with less effort,’ according to Professor Gareth Beevers of the Blood Pressure Association. ‘Aim to walk vigorously for at least 30 minutes most days, but build up to this if you’re not used to doing any exercise.’

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure

A US study claims that three cups of hibiscus tea daily lowers systolic pressure by seven points in six weeks – equalling the effects of many medications. Try Hambleden Hibiscus Tea, £2.50 for 30 bags from health stores.

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure

Healthy drinks to enjoy

Try to cut down on processed foods – bread, biscuits, breakfast cereals, takeaways and ready meals. These contain 80 per cent of the salt we consume, says the Blood Pressure Association.

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure

This mineral can counter the effects of sodium (from salt) and is great at helping to control blood pressure. Good sources include bananas, melons, pulses, mushrooms and sweet potatoes.

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure

Slow breathing and meditative practices, such as qigong, yoga, and tai chi decrease stress hormones which elevate renin, a kidney enzyme that raises blood pressure. Try five minutes in the morning and at night. Inhale deeply and expand your belly. Exhale and release all of your tension.

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure

Scientists at Queen Mary, University of London say patients who drank 250ml of beetroot juice daily had significantly lower blood pressure for up to 24 hours. Try Beet It, £1.39 for 250ml, available at good supermarkets.

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure

Caffeine can raise blood pressure by tightening blood vessels and by magnifying the effects of stress, which makes the heart pump faster. Duke University Medical Centre found 500mg of caffeine — three mugs of coffee — daily, increased blood pressure by 4 points, lasting until bedtime.

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure

Studies have found that coenzyme Q10 supplements reduced blood pressure by up to 17 points over ten points. CoQ10 is an antioxidant required for energy production and works by dilating blood vessels. Speak to your GP about taking a 60-100mg supplement three times a day. Try Healthspan Coenzyme Q10 60mg (£14.95 for 90 capsules from www.healthspan.co.uk).

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure

The University of Florence asked 28 adults on hypertension pills to listen to soothing classical, Celtic, or Indian music for 30 minutes a day, while also breathing slowly. After a week, the participants had lowered their average systolic reading by 3.2 points. After a month, readings were down 4.4 points.

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Take a look at more ways to lower your blood pressure