Feeling a little light on friendship lately? Then do something about it. Right now. Really.

Call an old friend. Make a playdate. Join a message board. Volunteer. Otherwise, your heart could pay the price. Because the lonelier people feel, the higher their blood pressure may rise.

Getting Connected
Loneliness seems to affect systolic (top number) blood pressure most, according to a recent study. And too-high systolic readings can increase your risk of stroke (could you spot the warning signs?) or heart disease (here are the top risk factors). So get connected! Your heart will be lighter and healthier for it.

More Ways to Bring It Down

• Slash sodium. (Take the quick quiz in this article to find hidden sources.)
• Get physical. (This complete workout takes only 20 minutes!)
• Trim down. (Track your BMI and waist loss with this online tool.)
• Don't stress. (Use these techniques to calm frazzled nerves.)

Do you know about the diet that's proven to reduce blood pressure? Check it out here.