Diastolic blood pressure refers to the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats, specifically during the diastole phase of the cardiac cycle. It is measured alongside systolic blood pressure, which occurs during heartbeats. Diastolic pressure is crucial for understanding overall cardiovascular health; elevated levels may indicate increased risk of heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions. Monitoring diastolic pressure helps in assessing the efficacy of blood pressure management strategies and can guide lifestyle changes or medical interventions when necessary.