Here are 6 key things that you can start doing today to lower your blood pressure naturally:

1. Stop smoking: The nicotine in a single cigarette is potent enough to raise blood pressure levels above normal. It can take 30 minutes to an hour for the effects of a cigarette to wear off and for blood pressure to return to baseline.

2. Lose fat: Take in 200-300 fewer calories today than you did yesterday, and keep doing it, day after day) and you will significantly lower your blood pressure.

3. Decrease your salt intake: You should consume no more than 2,000 milligrams of sodium per day (about one teaspoon of salt).

4. Eat more fruit and vegetables: Add one piece of fruit or vegetable to very meal.

5. Reduce your alcohol intake: men should consume no more than 2 12 oz beers per day – women, half that amount.

6. Exercise – work up to 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise per day.