The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)[1] estimate that 116 million adults in the United States suffer from hypertension also known as high blood pressure. If unchecked, high blood pressure which is defined as a systolic reading more than 130 mmHg and/or a diastolic reading more than 80 mmHg, can have serious consequences. Serious health problems like renal damage, heart disease, and stroke can result from it. Even though prescription drugs are frequently used to treat hypertension, a growing number of people are looking for complementary therapies to add to their regimens.
Apart from modifying their lifestyle and using prescription drugs, some individuals look into alternative treatments like herbal and nutritional supplements. When combined with exercise, a heart-healthy diet and weight control, these supplements may help maintain heart health and possibly even lower blood pressure. While there is no proof that vitamin or supplements may treat hypertension on their own, it is crucial to remember that some supplements may have advantages and improve cardiovascular health in general.
Knowing the potential role of supplements is important for anyone interested in including them into their plan for managing hypertension. This blog will explore supplements that are suggested by experts such as vitamins and herbal medicines and how they could help manage hypertension. These tips on controlling high blood pressure with dietary supplements might offer helpful direction, regardless of whether you’re looking to improve your existing course of therapy or are investigating novel approaches to support your heart health.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
Although the precise causes of hypertension, or high blood pressure are not entirely understood, they frequently result from a mix of hereditary and environmental factors. The majority of persons with high blood pressure have primary hypertension, which lacks a clear identified cause, according to board-certified cardiologist Dr. Michael Weinrauch. A smaller subset of people however may experience secondary hypertension a disease in which elevated blood pressure is associated with underlying medical issues like hyperthyroidism or hormonal abnormalities like Cushing’s syndrome. For the ailment to be effectively managed and treated, it is imperative to comprehend these causes.
10 Best Supplements for Controlling High Blood Pressure
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are well-known for their heart-healthy properties. They can be found in fatty fish like salmon and trout as well as plant sources like walnuts and flaxseeds. These fatty acids can help lower blood pressure by influencing vasoconstriction, the process that controls how much your blood vessels constrict. Studies reveal that omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to reduce the risk of heart disease by moderating blood pressure, lipid levels, arterial plaque, and inflammation. Omega-3s are generally well accepted, however they can have modest side effects like heartburn, poor breath, or digestive problems. Usually, the results start to show after eight weeks of dosage.
2. Potassium
A vital component for healthy heart and blood vessel function is potassium. It contributes to blood pressure reduction by relaxing blood vessel muscles. Blood vessel constriction and elevated blood pressure might result from low potassium levels. Increasing potassium consumption through food or supplements can assist in controlling blood pressure, particularly if it is already low. While mild side effects like nausea or diarrhea are possible very high potassium levels can be harmful, especially to people taking certain drugs or having kidney problems. It usually takes a few weeks for potassium to start affecting blood pressure.
3. Magnesium
Because calcium can constrict blood arteries, magnesium counteracts this action and plays a major role in blood pressure regulation. It also aids in preventing damage to the walls of blood vessels. Research has demonstrated that taking a magnesium supplement helps lower blood pressure in both the systolic and diastolic phases particularly in those who have hypertension. After about a month of supplementation magnesium has been demonstrated to be useful for blood pressure regulation, despite its relatively minor side effects, which include nausea and gastrointestinal disturbance.
4. CoQ10
An antioxidant, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is present in the kidneys, liver and heart, among other parts of the body. Given that many heart patients have low CoQ10 levels, it is associated with both blood pressure and heart disease. CoQ10 supplementation has been shown to help lower blood pressure in those with hypertension yet data are conflicting and there is still no solid evidence about how it lowers the risk of heart disease. Nausea and trouble sleeping are mild side effects. CoQ10 can interact with insulin and blood thinners. Usually it takes at least three weeks to notice any reduction in blood pressure.
5. Vitamin D
In addition to being crucial for bone health and the absorption of calcium, vitamin D also affects inflammation and heart disease. The data supporting the use of vitamin D supplements to lower blood pressure is conflicting, notwithstanding the link between low vitamin D levels and elevated blood pressure. Although overall results are inconclusive, some studies indicate a benefit when taken with blood pressure drugs. A toxic amount of vitamin D can cause serious health problems. Even though vitamin D is vital for good health, it might not be sufficient to lower blood pressure on its own.
6. Vitamin C
One of the most important nutrients in the body, vitamin C serves as an antioxidant among other things. The evidence is inconclusive, although some research indicate that vitamin C may help decrease blood pressure. Mixed outcomes have been found in the research some studies found little to no effect on blood pressure levels. Although vitamin C is generally safe and has minimal negative effects its effectiveness in controlling blood pressure is unclear. While it may not be a dependable supplement for managing high blood pressure, it is crucial for general health.
7. Beetroot
Rich in fiber, antioxidants and nitrates, beetroot is a root vegetable that may help decrease blood pressure. Beetroot’s nitrates are thought to be important in lowering blood pressure because they enhance blood vessel activity. Beetroot juice has been found in studies to reduce blood pressure’s systolic level however its diastolic effect may not be as marked. While some results can be observed in as little as three days, the most noticeable benefits are frequently observed eight weeks following use. A healthy supplement to the diet, beetroot may aid in the control of high blood pressure.
8. Hibiscus
Hibiscus is well known for its ability to decrease blood pressure and is frequently drunk as tea. Studies have indicated that hibiscus tea has the ability to lower systolic blood pressure, especially in people with moderate hypertension. The plant usually has little adverse effects and is well tolerated. As an added bonus to a heart-healthy lifestyle, hibiscus tea can significantly lower blood pressure when taken regularly over the course of about a month.
9. Garlic
People have traditionally used garlic for its health advantages, which include the possibility of blood pressure reduction. Garlic supplements have been shown in numerous studies to lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol in people with hypertension. Results could be impacted by differences in the quality of garlic supplements and study designs though. Bad breath and body odor are common adverse effects and garlic might interfere with several prescription drugs. All things considered garlic might help lower blood pressure but it’s crucial to take reputable supplements and speak with a doctor.
10. Green Tea
Many people drink green tea because of its many health advantages. Antioxidants and chemicals like polyphenols and catechism found in green tea may help control blood pressure. Drinking green tea has been shown in studies to reduce blood pressure in both the systolic and diastolic forms especially in those with stage 1 hypertension or prehypertension. Regular use is usually associated with advantages and green tea can contribute taste and health to a well-rounded diet.
Conclusion
Supplements can provide extra help for managing high blood pressure in addition to conventional therapy. Supplements include CoQ10, potassium, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids have demonstrated encouraging effects in reducing blood pressure and enhancing cardiovascular health. But it’s important to keep in mind that these supplements should be used in addition to prescription drugs, not as a substitute for them. Every supplement has unique advantages and possible drawbacks, therefore before beginning any new supplement, it’s crucial to speak with a healthcare professional.
A well-rounded strategy for decreasing blood pressure may be offered by combining a balanced combination of these supplements with heart-healthy eating and regular exercise for people looking for natural approaches to manage their hypertension. Even while supplements have their advantages, a comprehensive treatment plan that is customized to each patient’s unique needs is still necessary to successfully control high blood pressure. To be sure taking supplements fits into your overall treatment plan always think about talking to a healthcare provider about them.
