Episode 29 - Improving Health Statistics: Insights on Managing Blood Pressure and Realigning Your Life with Dr. Willie Mae Able

In Episode 29 of the "Realign Your Life" Podcast, host Vivian Smith Richardson welcomes back guest Dr. Willie Mae Abel, a nursing professor with expertise in cardiovascular disease prevention and women's health. The episode centers around the importance of understanding high blood pressure and making positive lifestyle changes to improve overall health. 

Dr. Abel emphasizes the need for individuals to take ownership of their health and actively engage with their healthcare providers. She provides practical advice on maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and effective communication with physicians.

The episode also debunks the theory of a genetic predisposition to hypertension among African Americans, highlighting the multifactorial nature of the condition. 

 

Key Moments: 

[00:06:20] Hypertension is not genetic.

[00:13:26] Food deserts impact access to healthy food.

[00:18:51] Clinical trial with coaching for self-management

[00:23:29] Continuing lifestyle changes maintain low blood pressure.

[00:26:21] Communicate side effects and dosage changes.

[00:30:49] Getting enough sleep is very important.

[00:33:41] Take control of your health with physicians.

[00:37:45] Monitor high blood pressure regularly for effectiveness.

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!