Many of us do not partake in the healthy benefits of a proper diet. Supplementation with vitamins is a great resource to incorporate those healthy benefits we are lacking. However, it is futile to think that continuing a poor diet and taking these vitamins will fill the gap in our diet. In order to reap the benefits of vitamins, we must try to implement a healthier way of eating.
Depending on how healthy (or not) you eat, that could be a very large gap to fill. If that’s the case, then the supplements will only overtax your already over-burdened liver that is trying to weed out the bad food you could be consuming. If you’re suffering from high blood pressure, it is absolutely imperative that you give your body all that it needs to fight the ailment. Therefore, continuing to eat a diet high in saturated fat and arachnodonic acid (from red meat) would be defeating the purpose, even if you are using supplements.
At any rate, if you’re hoping to find a natural way to lower your blood pressure, supplements can help, that is, if you’re already trying to eat healthier. The following supplements are beneficial for lowering blood pressure:
1) Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10 – This supplement aids in oxygenating and strengthening heart muscles as well as assisting with the metabolic process. Research has shown that this supplement is highly effective in fighting cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Use as directed on the package.
2) Essential Fatty Acids or EFA’s – This supplement is commonly found in fish oils and flaxseed oils and is said to contribute to the decrease in blood lipids and pressure. The Eskimos have a low rate of cardiovascular disease which is attributed to the fact that their diets consist mainly of coldwater fish.
3) Vitamin E – This common vitamin works to scavenge for free radicals and helps to protect against heart disease and stroke by also reducing LDL cholesterol. Low levels of this vitamin are considered a primary indicator of heart disease.
4) Calcium – Not only does this supplement give a body strong bones and muscles, it also helps maintain normal blood pressure. Research has proven that in some people, calcium can modify hypertension.
5) Nicotinc Acid – This supplement is a compound found in Niacin that aids in reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Other beneficial nutrients able to aid in lowering blood pressure include Zinc, Ginger, Vitamin D, Lecithin (granule or capsules), and Chromium.
Furthermore, there are several herbs that have beneficial properties for fighting hypertension. However, it is imperative that you consult a physician before taking any supplements as they can have severe interactions with any prescribed medications you may be taking.
The following herbal combination can help lower blood pressure: garlic, valerian root, black cohosh root, cayenne, kelp, blessed thistle and parsley leaves. The suggested dosage is four to eight capsules a day. Once an adequate reduction of blood pressure is achieved, slowly reduce the dosage while maintaining the effect. This formula is not to be used if you are pregnant or nursing.