To prevent and lower high blood pressure:

• Aim for a healthy weight.
• Be active every day. You can walk, dance, use the stairs, play sports, or do any activity you enjoy.
• Use less salt and sodium in cooking. Buy foods marked "sodium free," "low sodium," or "reduced sodium." Take the salt shaker off the table.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads and cereals, and low fat dairy products.
• Cut back on alcohol. Men who drink should have no more than one or two drinks each day. Women who drink should have no more than one drink a day. Pregnant women should not drink any alcohol.

NB: If you are not used to taking exercise regularly, then it may be appropriate to take medical advice before starting an exercise program.