Natural Methods for Treating High Blood Pressure

Known as the "silent killer", high blood pressure (hypertension) does not show symptoms until complications develop. Medications are used to treat high pressure, but there are alternative methods to help lower blood pressure as well.

Lifestyle Changes

• Healthy lifestyle changes will help to lower blood pressure. By following these helpful tips, you have a good chance of lowering blood pressure readings and avoiding heart complications.

  Blood pressure readings at the doctor's office may not always be correct, as some people have what is known as "white coat syndrome" and readings may be higher due to stress. Check your blood pressure at home by yourself using a sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff and gauge). Obtain readings at the same time every day or as many times as your physician orders, as blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day.

  Losing weight has a positive effect on blood pressure. Eat healthy and exercise. Participate in aerobic exercise like walking, running, swimming, dancing, or any exercise that will raise your pulse and sustain it for at least 20 minutes. It's best to avoid nonaerobic exercise such as weight lifting and push-ups, which may be harmful for people with hypertension.

  Stress reduction is also key for lowering blood pressure. Relaxation via meditation, yoga, biofeedback, massage and just rest can bring down blood pressure. Chronically stressed people release an abnormal amount of adrenaline, which causes tiny blood vessels to constrict and makes it harder for the heart to push blood through.

  Avoid alcohol, caffeine and tobacco.

Diet Can Help Reduce Hypertension

• Try to avoid animals fats and add more fruits and vegetables to your diet. The only acceptable proteins are fish, chicken, turkey and legumes. Keep your diet low-fat and full of fiber. Important foods to consume are bananas (a good source of potassium), celery (photochemical 3-N-butylphthalide reduces BP), leafy green vegetables and milk (calcium), foods rich in folate (beans, cereals, Brussels sprouts, asparagus), cayenne pepper (keeps blood platelets from sticking together), and foods rich in vitamin C (free radicals prevent artery wall damage). Make sure to get essential fatty acids in your diet from fish like salmon and sardines. And season foods with plenty of garlic, which also is effective in lowering blood pressure.

  Follow a strict salt-free diet and avoid foods that have salt, soda, sodium or the symbol "Na" listed on the ingredient label. Also try to avoid preservatives such as MSG, sugar substitutes, meat tenderizers and soy sauce (which has a high salt content).