Understanding Your
Blood Pressure Numbers
NORMAL
< 120
systolic (top #)
< 80
diastolic (bottom #)
ELEVATED
120 - 129
systolic (top #)
80
diastolic (bottom #)
HIGH
stage 1 HTN
130 - 139
systolic (top #)
80 - 89
diastolic (bottom #)
HIGH
stage 2 HTN
> 140
systolic (top #)
> 90
diastolic (bottom #)
🟢 If Your Numbers Are Green (Normal)
-
The Goal: Maintenance & Prevention.
-
The Blueprint: Don't change a thing, but keep an eye on hidden sodium. Focus on maintaining a baseline of 150 minutes of moderate cardiovascular movement a week (like brisk summer evening walks).
🟡 If Your Numbers Are Yellow (Elevated)
-
The Goal: The 30-Day Course Correct.
-
The Blueprint: This is the ultimate "yellow light" warning from your body. Before turning to drastic measures, try to start identifying hidden sources of sodium in the diet.
🔴 If Your Numbers Are Red (High)
-
The Goal: Stabilization & Partnership.
-
The Blueprint: Take a deep breath. A single high reading doesn't mean a diagnosis of hypertension —it means it's time to gather more data.
-
Action Step: Always sit quiety and take a few deep breaths for 3-5 minutes before measuring the blood pressure. If your physician confirms a diagnosis of hypertension, start taking proactive control to lessen your risk for heart disease.

