Longevity science

New “blood pressure watch” relies on a wristband made from piezo-resistive fibers developed at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA). These fibers measure the contact pressure of the device on the skin to overcome the problem of the device slipping on the wrist or muscle tension that can affect the measurements.

Researchers at A*STAR Institute of Microelectronics in Singapore are developing a prototype wireless device that powers an implanted blood-pressure sensor, eliminating the need to recharge or replace a battery.

The microscale electronic sensor monitors blood flow through artificial blood vessels. Surgeons use these prosthetic grafts to bypass diseased or clogged blood vessels in patients experiencing restricted blood supply, for example.

Reducing sugary drinks, even just a few ounces a day, reduces your risk of blood pressure problems.

A study in 2010 found that decreasing the intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (already-known culprits of weight gain) lead to a reduction in blood pressure.

Elevations in blood pressure increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Even a slight reduction, which could be achieved by cutting out 12 oz of sugary beverages per day, can make a difference in terms of heart health risk.

Scientists aren't certain why sugar affects blood pressure. One possible explanation is that sugar irritates the artery walls, which may prompts an increase in pressure.