What is one lifestyle modification to recommend to a patient with a family history of hypertension?

Adopting a healthy diet is a highly effective lifestyle modification for individuals with a family history of hypertension. Diet plays a crucial role in managing blood pressure and can significantly influence overall cardiovascular health. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, can help reduce blood pressure levels and improve heart health.

Additionally, a healthy diet often includes reducing sodium intake, which is particularly important for those at risk of hypertension. By choosing foods that are lower in salt and higher in potassium, magnesium, and fiber, patients can actively work to prevent or manage high blood pressure.

The other choices, such as increasing screen time or decreasing physical activity, would not support healthy blood pressure management and could potentially exacerbate risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Avoiding regular medical check-ups also hinders the monitoring and management of blood pressure and overall health status, making it an ineffective recommendation. Therefore, adopting a healthy diet stands out as the most beneficial modification in this context.