In response to recently released research showing that blood pressure control has worsened in men and women since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gateway Family YMCA is encouraging local residents to: urges people to get their blood pressure checked and make their health a priority. According to the American Heart Association’s blood pressure guidelines, nearly half (46%) of Americans have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is sometimes called the “silent killer” because there are usually no warning signs or symptoms.

High blood pressure and heart disease are serious illnesses, but the good news is that a healthy heart can be achieved by monitoring your blood pressure regularly, reducing your salt intake, eating a healthier diet, and getting more physical activity. This is a goal that can be achieved by changing your lifestyle. Getting help can be as easy as contacting the Y and joining our free Community Chronic Disease Management Program.

“There are many ways to keep your heart healthy, but making a conscious effort to lower your blood pressure and reduce your sodium intake are two quick and effective ways to prevent heart disease.” said Melinda A. Disla, President and CEO of Gateway Family. YMCA. “No matter what your heart health goals are this year, the Y has a variety of resources to help you reach them.”

Gateway Family YMCA offers the YMCA Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program to help adults with hypertension lower and better manage their blood pressure. This program focuses on regular monitoring of blood pressure at home using appropriate measurement techniques, individualized support, and nutritional education, which may lower blood pressure and improve quality of life.

Research shows that the simple process of checking and recording your blood pressure at least twice a month for four months, along with regular physical activity, good nutrition, and salt reduction, can lower blood pressure in people with high blood pressure .

The Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program is available at both the Elizabeth, Rahway and Union YMCA branches, as well as in the local community through collaboration with community groups, senior centers and local libraries. This program is available in both English and Spanish. Nationally, YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program is available in more than 700 locations in 71 states.

In addition, Gateway Family YMCA continues to expand the availability of the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, which is part of the CDC-led National Diabetes Prevention Program. The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program helps adults at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle and reduce their chances of developing the disease. Type 2 diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and people with diabetes are twice as likely to have heart disease or have a stroke than people without diabetes.

The program involves participants working together in small groups to learn about eating healthier, increasing physical activity, and making other behavioral changes with the goal of losing 7% of their body weight to reduce their risk of developing diabetes. Provide a supportive environment. Her trained lifestyle coaches will guide her through the program over a 12-month period. Increasing physical activity and moderate weight loss not only reduce the risk of diabetes, but also lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

In addition to monitoring your blood pressure, reducing your sodium intake is a great way to keep your heart healthy. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), too much sodium in your body puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels. In some people, this can cause or increase high blood pressure. Everyone, including children, should reduce their sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams (about 1 teaspoon of table salt) per day. Reducing sodium in your diet can help lower or avoid high blood pressure.

Gateway Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit health and community organization comprised of caring staff and volunteers dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. A service organization. Gateway Family YMCA impacts our community by providing quality service to everyone. The Y doesn’t just strengthen bodies, it strengthens people, families, and communities.

Gateway Family YMCA offers a diverse community of individuals who can support all people in achieving their health and well-being goals. For more information, visit www.tgfymca.org or visit your local branch in Elizabeth, Rahway or Union, New Jersey.