What Vitamins or Minerals Lower Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure is a dangerous condition, often leading to heart disease and stroke. Although there are drugs that you can take, many people prefer to manage their health using more natural means. There are many vitamins and minerals that can help you keep your blood pressure down.

Vitamin C

• Vitamin C is an all-purpose vitamin, affecting everything from the immune system to the bones. It helps lower blood pressure by strengthening arteries and preventing atherosclerosis. This vitamin is found in most fresh fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits.

Vitamin B9

• Vitamin B9 helps lower blood pressure by producing healthy red blood cells. This nutrient is found in green leafy vegetables.

Vitamin E

• Another vitamin that is useful for preventing high blood pressure is vitamin E. It is an antioxidant, which protects your arteries against oxidized cholesterol. You get this nutrient from nuts and seeds, as well as green leafy vegetables like spinach.

Potassium

• Potassium is a mineral that helps to regulate fluid levels in the cells and promote healthy kidney function. It also maintains proper heart muscle contraction. Bananas are full of potassium, as are fish, potatoes and watermelon.

Magnesium

• Magnesium is doubly important in maintaining healthy blood pressure because--besides it own benefits--it is necessary for proper storage and use of potassium. This mineral promotes energy production in the body and improves heart function. You get magnesium from whole grains and--yes--more green leafy vegetables.