High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Helpful Natural Supplements and Treatments
 

OVERVIEW

High blood pressure is a medical condition, usually without symptoms, in which the arterial blood pressure consistently exceeds 140/90 mm Hg. (Optimal is below 120/80.) Basically it is a combination of too much blood volume and/or too narrow arteries.

In most cases of hypertension (about 95%), the cause is unknown (idiopathic), but may be connected to genetic predisposition, race, obesity, smoking, stress, and a high-fat or high-sodium diet. This is called essential hypertension.

In secondary hypertension, the cause is related to a medical condition, such as kidney disease, or endocrine or metabolic disorders. Two other forms of hypertension are malignant and preeclampsia (toxemia of pregnancy).

If left untreated, hypertension can increase the likelihood of having a heart attack, stroke, or kidney failure.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR HYPERTENSION

There are many natural supplements that can help with high blood pressure. Consult with your healthcare provider to see which of the following supplements may be appropriate for you. PLEASE NOTE: It is very important to make sure that supplements do not interfere with your medications or an existing health condition.

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium – This macro mineral can lower blood pressure in some individuals, especially for people who have salt-sensitive (sodium-sensitive) hypertension.

Magnesium – This macro mineral may lower blood pressure, but only when taken in large amounts (400 mg and above).

Potassium – This macro mineral may be somewhat more effective in lowering blood pressure than the two listed above. As with calcium, it may be more effective with people who have a high salt (sodium) diet.

Less Helpful: vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E.

Other Supplements

Arginine – Not only can this conditionally essential amino acid slightly lower blood pressure, but it may also help ACE inhibitor medications work better.

CoQ10 – Coenzyme Q10 can significantly lower blood pressure in individuals, especially those with isolated systolic hypertension.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (fish oil) – Taking at least 2,000 mg of EPA/DHA, fatty acids found in fish oil, can lower blood pressure.

Taurine – Some research supports this non-essential amino acid having benefit in lowering blood pressure. Its effect may be due to the lowering of catecholamines, such as dopamine and epinephrine.

Less Helpful: melatonin, omega-6 fatty acid (GLA), theanine.

Herbs

Garlic – This herb can be modestly effective lowering blood pressure.

Hawthorn – This herb may be the best herb in treating congestive heart failure. It may also be able to slightly lower blood pressure.

Psyllium – Psyllium fiber is a somewhat effective natural treatment in lowering blood pressure, and even more so when combined with soy protein.

Reishi Mushroom – Several studies have shown that extracts of this mushroom can be fairly effective in lowering blood pressure.

Less Helpful: arjuna, coleus forskohlii, maitake mushroom, pine bark (pycnogenols).

COMMENTS

Treatment usually starts with the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) that includes changes to diet (less fat and salt, and more fresh fruit, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products) and lifestyle (lose weight, stop smoking, less alcohol, stress reduction, exercise more). Plenty of medications are available, including diuretics (water pills), beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors. Do not stop taking medications unless directed so by your doctor.

References
Jellin, JM, editor. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2008.
Pillepich, JA. The Nutraceutical Reference Guide, 2005.

FOR HYPERTENSION, CONSIDER THESE SUPPLEMENTS:

● Calcium
● Magnesium
● L-Arginine
● CoQ10 w/Hawthorn
● Omega-3 (EPA & DHA)
● Heart Formula
● Garlic, Pure-Gar
● Psyllium Husk Caps

The products and the claims made about specific products on or through this site have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professionals or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Your health is our major concern.

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