Lower Blood Pressure – Does being a parent mean you have lower blood pressure?

You’d think the stress of raising children would cause blood pressure to boil; however, a study has actually found a link between parenthood and lower blood pressure, particularly in women. The Brigham Young Study monitored 198 adults for 24 hours. Seventy percent of participants had children, participants were married and in overall good health.

The study measured blood pressure using portable devices at random times throughout the day and night. Researchers found participants with children had an average blood pressure of 116/71 mm Hg. After factoring in other issues that impact blood pressure (i.e. age, gender, body mass index, and smoking, etc.) parents had a systolic (top number) blood pressure reading 4.5 points lower and a diastolic (bottom number) reading 3 points lower than participants without children. A greater difference was seen in women. Motherhood corresponded with a 12 point difference in systolic blood pressure and 7 point difference in diastolic blood pressure.

Interesting look at how not only dietary factors influence blood pressure. What do you think? Has being a parent had a positive impact on your blood pressure? Share your thoughts below!

Be sure to sign up for the free e-course 7 Natural Ways to Lower Blood Pressure at http://www.lowerbloodpressurewithlisa.com.

All the best,
Lisa Nelson RD