A Case Study

Some people need to experience the benefits of change before they will commit to a better lifestyle. I had a client come to me for a blood pressure check. He stated that he began an intentional fitness routine because his doctor indicated that his blood pressure was too high. So, I asked him about his daily habits including food. He is an avid biker and fairly active with his children, and eats fresh fruits, vegetables and meats. However his BP remained elevated at 138/88. He was concerned.

After writing down his basic daily routine, I turned it around so he could see for himself. He reported natural foods as meals, but he didn’t realize that every meal also included some element of sugar or artificial sweetener. He wasn’t aware of how much sugar he was consuming, including fruit, until he saw it on paper. I challenged him to eliminate sugar then come back for a BP check.

After 2 weeks and with a 50% reduction, not elimination, of sugar, his BP was 128/82! He reported an unexpected weight reduction of 6 lbs as well!

I explained to him that food intake is a hormone response issue and not a calorie balance issue. When you consume sugar and simple carbohydrates, you elicit an insulin response to keep the damaging blood sugars in balance. However, the high insulin levels in response to the high sugar levels also do harm to your body. High insulin levels prompt the kidneys to retain fluid causing swelling ,(the fluid has to go somewhere), and inflammation. It is especially noticeable in the hands and legs. Chronically high insulin levels also damage the interior walls of the blood vessels, leading to inflexible scar tissue. Both phenomena contribute to high blood pressure. Reducing sugar consumption will reduce insulin response allowing your body to recover, heal, and return to normal function.

Start Well Stay Well