If you’re asking what “If you have high blood pressure, NEVER do this in the morning” is referring to, the headline is probably oversimplified. There isn’t one universal morning activity that every person with hypertension must never do.
One particularly important thing to avoid before checking your blood pressure is:
☕ Don’t measure your BP immediately after caffeine, smoking, or exercise
The American Heart Association recommends avoiding caffeine, smoking, and exercise for at least 30 minutes before a blood-pressure measurement. These can temporarily raise the reading and make it less accurate.
For a reliable morning reading:
- Empty your bladder.
- Sit quietly for at least 5 minutes.
- Keep your back supported and feet flat on the floor.
- Rest your arm at heart level.
- Don’t talk while measuring.
- Take two readings about one minute apart and record them.
What about coffee itself?
People with high blood pressure don’t necessarily have to eliminate coffee. However, caffeine can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure and heart rate, so people who are sensitive to caffeine should be cautious.
Don’t skip prescribed medication
If you’ve been prescribed blood-pressure medicine, don’t stop or change it because of a social-media headline. The timing of medication should follow your healthcare professional’s instructions
