Disclaimer: The content of the article is for reference only, the storyline is purely fictional, intended to popularize health knowledge, if you feel unwell, please seek medical attention offline.
On a summer afternoon, the sun shines lazily on the café's terrace. Uncle Li was sitting around with a few old friends, enjoying a leisurely time. Suddenly, the waiter brought a bottle of red wine and a few goblets.
"Come on, come on, I'm in for a treat today, let's have some drinks to celebrate!" Uncle Li said with a smile.
But at this moment, Dr. Wang, who was sitting on the side, frowned. "Uncle Li, don't you have high blood pressure? Don't drink. "
Uncle Li waved his hand and said disappreciatively: "Oh, my blood pressure is not too high, what's wrong with drinking a little occasionally?" Besides, isn't red wine good for the heart? "
Doctor Wang sighed and said, "Uncle Li, you are 58 years old this year, and patients with high blood pressure really can't take it lightly." Especially for someone over the age of 55 like you, drinking alcohol can bring a lot of harm. "
When Uncle Li heard this, there was a puzzled expression on his face: "Is it really so serious?" Tell me, what's the downside? "
Dr. Wang cleared his throat and began to speak.
"The most direct effect of drinking alcohol in patients with high blood pressure is that it will lead to an increase in blood pressure. Alcohol stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, causing blood vessels to constrict and the heart to beat faster, which increases blood pressure. For people who already have high blood pressure, this is undoubtedly worse. "
When Uncle Li heard this, he couldn't help frowning. Dr. Wang continued, "Moreover, alcohol can also interfere with the effects of antihypertensive medications. Many blood pressure medications taken with alcohol can cause adverse reactions and may even worsen the side effects of the medication. "
Hearing this, Uncle Li's expression became even more solemn. He couldn't help but ask, "Is there really no benefit to drinking at all?" "
Dr. Wang shook his head and patiently explained, "In fact, moderate alcohol consumption may have certain benefits for some people, such as raising the level of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol). But for people with high blood pressure, the benefits far outweigh the risks. "
At this time, Aunt Zhang, who was sitting on the side, also interjected: "I heard that drinking red wine is good for the heart, is it true?" "
Dr. Wang nodded and said, "Red wine does contain some substances that are good for the heart, such as resveratrol. However, the amount of these substances is very small, and to achieve an effective dose, a lot of red wine needs to be drunk, which is very dangerous for people with high blood pressure. Moreover, these substances can also be found in other foods, such as grapes and blueberries. "
Uncle Li listened and nodded thoughtfully. Seeing this, Dr. Wang continued, "Another important point is that alcohol can cause weight gain. Alcohol itself contains a lot of calories, and drinking alcohol often increases appetite, leading to overeating. Weight control is very important for people with high blood pressure. "
"What if you just drink a little once in a while?" Uncle Li still asked a little unwillingly.
Dr. Wang shook his head and said solemnly, "Uncle Li, for patients with high blood pressure, it is really impossible to drink a sip of wine. Even small amounts of alcohol may cause fluctuations in blood pressure and increase the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Especially if you're over 55, be extra careful. "
Hearing this, Uncle Li finally put down the wine glass in his hand, sighed and said, "It seems that I really can't touch the wine." "
Seeing this, Dr. Wang smiled with relief. He continued: "Actually, managing high blood pressure is not as simple as not drinking alcohol. We also need to pay attention to diet, exercise, and mental state. "
"In terms of diet, we should pay attention to controlling salt intake, eat more vegetables and fruits, and appropriately increase potassium intake. For exercise, get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as brisk walking, jogging or swimming. Psychologically, learn to relax, maintain a good attitude, and avoid excessive tension and anxiety. "
Uncle Li listened and said thoughtfully: "It turns out that there are so many things to pay attention to controlling high blood pressure." "
Dr. Wang smiled and said, "Yes, the control of high blood pressure is a system engineering. However, as long as we take it seriously, we will definitely be able to control our blood pressure within the ideal range. "
At this time, the waiter came over and asked, "Do you need anything else?" "
Uncle Li smiled and said, "Bring me a glass of lemonade, refreshing and healthy." "
Looking at Uncle Li's choice, Dr. Wang nodded with satisfaction. He knows it's not just a drink choice, it's a lifestyle change.
On this sunny afternoon, a conversation about health gave everyone a new perspective. They understand that health is not just about being free from disease, but also about a positive attitude towards life. For people with high blood pressure, staying away from alcohol and choosing a healthy lifestyle is the real way to longevity.
As the sun slowly sank, the laughter in the café remained. It's just that the original wine glass has been replaced by a variety of healthy drinks. This afternoon is not just a party, but also a profound education about health.
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