Lowering blood pressure requires a focus on diet and exercise. Foods high in fat, sodium and salt are big parts of the typical American diet. Concentrate on fresh foods instead of processed foods. Sure, it’s more arduous to make a salad than pop something in the microwave, but the reduction in fat, salt and artificial ingredients is worth the few extra minutes of preparation. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, poultry, fish, nuts, lean meats and seeds should be the mainstays of a healthy diet, while red meat, sugar-filled juices and soda, and artificial anything should be consumed sparingly. Blood pressure is quick to react to a change in diet, in some cases decreasing within 14 days.

Losing weight is also a big help. Losing just a dozen pounds can shave four points of the systolic blood pressure (the top number) and more than three points off the diastolic (bottom number). That reduction is effective, even if you don’t reduce salt consumption.

Monitoring blood pressure at home can make patients more aware of the conditions that may spike it. A blood pressure cuff can be purchased for less than $50, and many supermarkets, drug stores and pharmacies now offer free blood pressure checks.

Moderate exercise can play a role in helping to reduce blood pressure. Even walking a bit after dinner, parking the car at the far end of the lot or taking the stairs instead of the elevator has its benefits.

What kind of medications may help control blood pressure, and, therefore, reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease? The American Academy of Neurology found that any blood pressure medication helped but recommended beta blockers, which research shows most reduced the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

Beta blocker medications include acebutolol (commercially known as Sectral), metoprolol, atenolol (Tenormin), bisoprolol (Zebeta), nebivolol (Bystolic), nadolol (Corgard) and propranolol (Inderal LA). Research concluded that these produce less corrosion in the brain and thus, fewer chances of developing the severe dementia and memory problems associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

While research is ongoing for the blood pressure/Alzheimer’s connection, it is not a good idea to start beta blockers merely as an Alzheimer’s preventive. It’s also not a good idea if on another type of blood pressure medication to switch to beta blockers without consulting a doctor. Just keep in mind that a healthy heart may mean a healthier brain. That’s the message the medical community hopes that you hear.