Banana cream pie

Hypertension
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Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Headache, dizziness, shortness of breath
Complications	Heart disease, stroke, kidney failure
Onset	Gradual
Duration	Long term
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetics, diet, lifestyle
Risks	Obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption
Diagnosis	Blood pressure measurement
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Lifestyle changes, medication
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.

Signs and Symptoms

Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms until it has caused significant damage to the heart and arteries. Some people with high blood pressure may experience headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

Causes

The exact cause of hypertension is often unknown, but several factors can contribute to its development, including:

• Genetics
• Unhealthy diet, particularly high salt intake
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking

Diagnosis

Hypertension is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is generally considered high.

Treatment

Treatment for hypertension typically involves lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes may include:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Reducing salt intake
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking

Medications used to treat hypertension include diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers.

Complications

If left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney failure
• Vision loss

Prevention

Preventing hypertension involves adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use.

See Also

• Cardiovascular disease
• Blood pressure
• Heart attack

External Links

• World Health Organization: Hypertension
• CDC: High Blood Pressure Banana cream pie is a popular dessert that consists of a pastry crust, filled with slices of fresh banana, and a creamy custard or pudding. The pie is often topped with whipped cream and sometimes garnished with additional banana slices or chocolate shavings. Originating from the United States, banana cream pie has become a beloved treat in many parts of the world, celebrated for its rich flavor and comforting texture.

History

The exact origins of banana cream pie are somewhat unclear, but it is generally believed to have developed in the United States in the 19th century. The pie gained popularity as bananas became more widely available in the country, thanks in part to advancements in transportation and refrigeration. By the early 20th century, banana cream pie was a common feature in American cookbooks and on dessert menus across the country.

Ingredients and Preparation

The key components of a banana cream pie include a pastry crust, bananas, custard or pudding, and whipped cream. The crust is typically made from a mixture of flour, butter, and water, and is pre-baked before being filled. The custard or pudding layer is made from milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, cooked until thickened, then cooled. Sliced bananas are layered over the crust and covered with the custard. Once the pie has set, it is topped with whipped cream and, optionally, additional banana slices or chocolate shavings.

Variations

There are several variations of banana cream pie, including:

• Chocolate Banana Cream Pie: Incorporates chocolate into the custard or as a layer of chocolate ganache between the bananas and the custard.
• Banoffee Pie: A British version that includes a layer of toffee or dulce de leche in addition to the bananas and cream.
• Coconut Banana Cream Pie: Adds coconut flavor to the custard and sometimes uses a coconut-flavored whipped cream topping.

Cultural Significance

Banana cream pie is considered a classic American dessert and has been embraced by other cultures around the world. It is often associated with comfort food and home cooking, and is a staple at many family gatherings and diners in the United States. The pie also has a day dedicated to it, National Banana Cream Pie Day, celebrated on March 2nd in the United States.

See Also

• Pie
• Custard
• Whipped cream
• Banana