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High Blood Pressure Natural Supplements

High blood pressure is a dangerous condition that can have long-term effects. Ideal blood pressure is 120/80. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to many life-threatening conditions such as heart failures, artery damage and aneurysms. High blood pressure may be treated by changing one's diet and lifestyle and, if necessary, by taking medications. Some individuals may wish to attempt to control blood pressure with natural supplements. However, before taking any supplement, an individual should consult a doctor because some supplements may have harmful side effects when combined with other supplements of medications.

  1. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)

    • ALA is a fatty acid is found in many nuts, seeds and oils. It may be used to help lower blood pressure, but is better used as a preventative before high blood pressure onset. Too much ALA may increase bleeding risks.

    Blond psyllium

    • Blond psyllium is found in products such as Metamucil and may help lower the systolic blood pressure number by about 8mm and the diastolic number by about 2mm.

    Calcium

    • Calcium may reduce blood pressure slightly and is generally is more beneficial for the prevention of osteoporosis.

    Coenzyme Q-10

    • This supplement can be very effective. However, it takes about 12 weeks for the full effects to be seen.

    Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    • Taking omega-3 fatty acids may reduce blood pressure; however, how much is debatable. According to a study published in the Journal of Hypertension, those individuals who consume the most Omega-3 fatty acids, have lower blood pressure.

    Garlic

    • Garlic may reduce blood pressure significantly according to some studies. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and the Australian Government Primary Health Care Research Evaluation Development Program found in their studies that garlic lowered the systolic blood pressure number by an average of 8.4mm and the diastolic blood pressure number by an average of 7.3mm.

    Other Supplements that May Lower Blood Pressure

    • Olive leaf extract, potassium and pycnogenol (pine bark extract) can also be used to help lower blood pressure. According to Natural Medicines Database, Pycnogenol is effective in significantly lowering the systolic blood pressure number by about 10 to 20 points.

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