High blood pressure, also called hypertension, has become a major health problem around the world. Over the years, more and more people have died from it, even though many still think it’s not serious.
This misunderstanding puts lives at risk, because untreated high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, and other deadly conditions. The good news is that high blood pressure can be managed. Doctors often recommend lifestyle changes like eating healthier, exercising, and taking prescribed medicine. One simple but powerful habit that can help is drinking enough water every day.
When you don’t drink enough water, your body becomes dehydrated. This makes your blood thicker, which can raise your blood pressure. Dehydration also causes your kidneys to release more of an enzyme called renin. Renin tells your body to hold onto salt and water, which can make your blood pressure go even higher.
Another problem is that dehydration triggers the release of a hormone called vasopressin. This hormone makes your blood vessels tighten and encourages your body to keep more salt. Both of these effects can raise your blood pressure.
According to health experts, drinking six to eight glasses of water each day can help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range. Water helps your heart and blood vessels work better, and staying hydrated may reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
In short, drinking enough water is a simple way to support your health. It won’t cure hypertension on its own, but it can help. Along with other healthy habits—like eating less salt, staying active, and managing stress—water plays an important role in keeping your blood pressure under control.
If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about how much water you should drink each day based on your body’s needs.