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Blood pressure tip: Watch your weight

Blood pressure often increases as weight increases. In general, the more weight you lose, the lower your blood pressure. If you're overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can reduce your blood pressure. You may generally reduce your blood pressure by about 1 millimeter of mercury (mm Hg) with each kilogram (about 2.2 pounds) of weight you lose. Work with your doctor to determine your target weight and the best way to achieve it.