Low carb naturally lowers BP in many people. So does weight loss. Salt intake from processed foods should be watched carefully, since sometimes the servings are much smaller than you think. It's very easy to eat more than a serving of a food....and when it's high in salt to begin with, it can end up being a big dose!

Exercise and weight loss are probably the best thigns to lower blood pressure. How you loose weight, LC or LF or whatever isn't as important as sticking to it. If you've tried one and have trouble sticking with it, try another. Eating "celery,carrots,oranges,lemons,breast chicken and salmon plus tunafish on wheat with no mayo. " Doesn't sound healthy to me.

Cardiovascular exercise is very important for BP. Depending on your body type you can handle higher blood pressures.....but too high is too high.

Commonly, "High Blood Pressure" is defined as consistenly over 140/90.

"It is estimated that there are nearly 50 million hypertensives in the USA (systolic BP >= 140 mm Hg and/or diastolic >= 90 mm Hg, or taking antihypertensive medication)." From The Merck Manual

The danger with high blood pressure is long term damage. Some people are sensitive to high BP and have headaches, but most that claim they do actually don't show any elevation with headaches. It's called the silent killer for a reason.

Medication is essential unless and until lifestyle changes reduce it naturally. Most bp meds have side effects, but there are so many on the market that it's usually pretty easy to find one that works and doens't bother you. If you're having side effects you should ask for another med. Don't stop it if your numbers are still elevated.

If you tend to be hyper, anxious, and/or a "Type A" personality or have a lot of stress in your life you might consider some type of relaxation measures. Lie down with your favorite music playing and relax. Try to think of nothing. Try Yoga and meditation! Get a massage! Stress absolutely contributes to higher blood pressure....and taking measures to reduce the stress or at least minimalize it's effects can help lower BP....and contribute to sleep.

Here's a sleep exercise I use sometimes:
Lie down in a comfy position. All set for bed....doors locked, dog in it's crate, lights, TV, radio turned off or down....get in a comfy position to fall asleep.
Now....starting at your toes, consiously relax your body parts....first your toes/feet....then your lower legs/calves....then your upper legs, hips, etc....if necessary tighten and then relax the muscles of the body part and will yourself to relax more and more as you move up your body. Take your time....by the time you get to your head you should be alseep....if not, keep taking deep breaths and relax some more.

Hope some of this helps!