Podcast: More than a Number - Rethinking High Blood Pressure
In this episode, experts from UVM Health discuss the role of nutrition, medication, healthy habits and community support in managing blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular risk.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects millions of people. Managing it takes more than monitoring your blood pressure readings. Clinical care, nutrition, lifestyle changes and everyday challenges all play a role.
Learn more about Wellness & Preventing at UVM Health
Alison Hobart, FNP, a primary care provider, and Rachel Lorek, RD, a clinical nutritionist and director of Food and Nutrition Services at University of Vermont Health - Central Vermont Medical Center, explain why high blood pressure is one of the most common (and preventable) chronic conditions. They break down how lifestyle changes, medication and food choices can work together to reduce a person’s risk — and how small changes can make a big difference.
Vickie Delmas, an occupational therapist and provider outreach specialist, and Amy Rainville, a health and wellness coach and tobacco treatment specialist, share practical strategies for building sustainable habits that support healthy blood pressure. From accountability and behavior change to finding resources through community-based support programs, they highlight how consistency and small, positive steps can lead to lasting health improvements.
Guadalupe Martinez, director of Culture, Experience and Community Health at UVM Health, and Erin Armstrong, LCSW, director of Health Equity for UVM Health, explore the broader forces shaping blood pressure and cardiovascular health. They discuss how access to food, transportation, housing and financial stability influence blood pressure health and risks — and why addressing these needs is essential to improving individual health outcomes.
Resources
- VeggieVanGO (CVMC Resource Page)
- Hunger Free Vermont
- 3SquaresVT (SNAP)
- Food & Wellness resources (My Healthy Vermont)
- DASH Diet (NIH)
- Heart-Healthy Eating (Eatright.org)
- SASH (at-home blood pressure management)
- How to Take Your Blood Pressure at Home (SASH – YouTube)
- Life’s Essential 8 (American Heart Association)
- My Healthy Vermont
- Come Alive Outside
- 802 Quits (Smoking Cessation)
About Living Healthy Together
Each week we share stories, advice and insights from those closest to care in Vermont and northern New York while exploring the local and national issues shaping health care. Catch Living Healthy Together live airing on Radio Vermont's WDEV Fridays at 1 pm.
