Vitamins for High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure--or hypertension--affects one out of every three Americans, according to the American Heart Association. Two thirds of those with high blood pressure may not even know they have it. It's the reason why high blood pressure is known as the silent killer. It is recommended by the American Heart Association to maintain an ideal weight, reduce your salt and alcohol intake, exercise and increase physical activity, and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. There are also vitamins and supplements to help treat high blood pressure.

Vitamin C

• Vitamin C helps control your blood pressure in more ways than one. It reduces the generation of free radicals that damage artery walls. It also helps fix damaged arteries, and it helps elevate levels of HDL cholesterol. If you suffer from high blood pressure, take a minimum of 2,500 milligrams of vitamin C every day.

Vitamin E

• Vitamin E decreases the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Vitamin E helps by protecting your arteries from the effects of LDL cholesterol. It is the most active antioxidant in the body. It is recommended to take 800 international units (IUs) of natural vitamin E daily if you suffer from high blood pressure or want to prevent it.

Vitamin A

• Vitamin A is similar to Vitamin E because it is a fat soluble that works primarily in the fat tissues of your body. It prevents LDL cholesterol and the build up of plaque on the arteries. Vitamin A can be toxic if too much is taken so it is recommended to only take 5,000 IUs a day.

Potassium

• Potassium helps keep sodium levels down therefore helping reduce high blood pressure. Too much sodium can cause high blood pressure. It is recommended to take a potassium supplement or eat foods that are high in potassium to help keep blood pressure under control or to prevent high blood pressure. Examples of potassium rich foods include bananas, potatoes and milk.

Magnesium

• People with a magnesium deficiency have been known to suffer from high blood pressure. It is recommended to take a magnesium supplement to help control blood pressure or to prevent high blood pressure. The recommended amount is 300 to 400 milligrams of magnesium every day to help reduce or prevent high blood pressure. Magnesium rich foods include salmon, leafy green vegetables, whole grains and nuts.