Episode 27 - Lifestyle Changes for a Healthier You: Hypertension Insights with Dr. Willie Mae Able

In Episode 27 of the "Realign Your Life" podcast, host Vivian Smith Richardson welcomes guest Dr. Willie Mae Abel, an associate professor at the School of Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. The episode focuses on hypertension and its impact on overall health and well-being.

Dr. Abel emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes in preventing high blood pressure. This includes maintaining a well-balanced diet low in sodium, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding excessive alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy weight. She also highlights the significance of taking prescribed medications as directed and actively participating in healthcare by communicating with doctors and disclosing all medications being taken.

Dr. Abel explains how prolonged high blood pressure can lead to various health problems and even life-threatening conditions, as it weakens and stiffens blood vessels.

The episode aims to educate and empower listeners to take control of their health and well-being. So grab your headphones and get ready to realign your life on this transformative episode.

 

Timestamps: 

[00:06:13] Stress impacts blood pressure and health.

[00:11:36] Well-balanced, low-sodium diet important for health. Obesity and hypertension linked to weight gain and lack of exercise.

[00:17:58] Active lifestyle changes key for preventing hypertension. Medication compliance crucial for controlling blood pressure. Open dialogue with doctor about all health factors.

 

About the guest : 

Dr. Willie Mae Abel is a renowned expert in the field of cardiovascular health. With a deep understanding of the human body and its intricate systems, Dr. Abel has dedicated her career to studying the effects of high blood pressure on major organs such as the heart, kidneys, brain, and eyes. Through her extensive research, Dr. Abel has discovered that high blood pressure constricts blood vessels, reducing their diameter. This puts excessive strain on the heart, causing it to gradually lose its strength over time. Additionally, the force of blood flowing through weakened and stiffened vessels further exacerbates the risk of organ damage. Dr. Abel's passion for improving health outcomes and preventing life-threatening conditions has led her to advocate for regular check-ups, proper medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. She believes that by raising awareness about the dangers of untreated high blood pressure, individuals can take proactive steps towards maintaining good cardiovascular health. With her expertise and dedication, Dr. Abel continues to make significant contributions to the medical community. Her research and insights are instrumental in improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Through her work, she aims to empower individuals to prioritize their well-being and lead healthier lives.

 

About Vivian : 

About Vivian - Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful!