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I have a strong family history of hypertension and arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) (mother, father, sister, aunts, uncles, grandparents).

I developed hypertension several years ago. About a year ago I was placed on medication for it.

With diet control and regular exercise I was able to stop medication months ago. This morning my blood pressure was 129/76.

The only exercise required is 30 minutes on the treadmill at 3.5 miles per hour and 0 incline.

My weight got up to 220 lbs. Ozempic was necessary. This morning it was 203 lbs.

I NEVER eat meat (beef, pork, chicken, turkey, et al.) or added salt (check Na content of everything). I eat seafood if it is not high in sodium.

This might seem like a Spartan existence, and I suppose it is, but self discipline is fun once you get the hang of it, and you feel great.

I'm 85 years old and show no evidence of ASCVD, despite genetics.

I also drink almost no alcohol. I had wine with dinner last Thanksgiving, at a banquet last February, and with fish a few weeks ago. The only time I want it is with things that demand wine, e.g. pasta, fish, and I'm happy to indulge. It helps that no one in my family drinks much alcohol and all value self discipline.