Taking steps to reduce cholesterol may also help people lower their risk of developing hypertension.

Recent research by Dr. Howard Sesso and colleagues at Harvard Medical School shows that climbing cholesterol counts seem to precede the onset of high blood pressure. In the 14-year study, men with the highest ratio of total cholesterol to HDL were 54 percent more likely to develop hypertension versus men with the lowest ratios. Those with the highest cholesterol counts (minus HDL) had a 39 percent increased risk.

The team previously reported data linking abnormal cholesterol levels to the onset of hypertension in women.

Bundle Up!

An active lifestyle helps keep blood pressure under control. Don't let cold weather stand in the way of enjoying your outdoor activities—the key is to dress in layers.

Indiana University fitness expert David Gallahue recommends first and second layers of such moisture-wicking fabrics as polypropylene instead of cotton, which tends to trap moisture against the skin. Add fleece for warmth, and finish with a waterproof outer layer. Hats made of wicking fabric are good, too. And with snow, eye protection and sunscreen are musts.

BP and Brain Power

New research using MRI scans may have discovered the missing link for why people with high blood pressure sometimes exhibit signs of cognitive decline.

The scientists found that people with high BP are more likely to develop "white matter hyperintensities" (WMHs)—a larger number of which are associated with an increased risk of dementia and accelerated brain aging in some hypertensive patients.

Lowering blood pressure slowed or prevented growth of the abnormal tissue, according to a study in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association.

Eating for Life

Chances are you or someone you love has high blood pressure, a dangerous condition that makes the heart work too hard. The force of its blood flow can also harm arteries.

Blood pressure can be unhealthy even if it stays only slightly above the normal level of less than 120/80 mmHg. The higher the BP numbers, the greater the health risk.

Those with high blood pressure may especially benefit from a special eating plan—known as Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH)—and by reducing their sodium intake. This combination is a heart-healthy recipe that all adults can follow.

Here are some ways to lower blood pressure with the DASH plan:

1. Gradually increase your intake of fat-free and low-fat dairy products to three servings a day. New data from Harvard University show that consuming skim and low-fat milk products can reduce the risk of hypertension by half.

2. Read food labels on margarines and oils to choose those lowest in saturated and trans fat.

3. Limit meat to six ounces daily—that's all our bodies need. A serving of three to four ounces is about the size of a deck of cards.

Take Charge of Your Health

With this issue, we kick off a campaign to help Post readers learn more about hypertension and how to prevent and help treat the potentially life-threatening condition by offering cutting-edge research news and practical advice on healthy lifestyle choices. Send your tips, success stories, and suggestions about the types of information you need to take charge of your health to "Focus on Hypertension," SEP, 1100 Waterway Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46202.