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Can Weight Loss Cause Hypotension?

You've probably heard a lot about the health problems associated with hypertension (high blood pressure), but many people are unaware of the causes and effects of hypotension, also known as low blood pressure. "Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries... your blood pressure is highest when your heart beats, pumping the blood," according to the National Institutes of Health. "When your heart is at rest, between beats, your blood pressure falls."

  1. Causes of Hypotension

    • According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, "Factors or conditions that disrupt the body's ability to control blood pressure cause hypotension." Conditions that may cause low blood pressure includes heart problems, pregnancy, thyroid problems, dehydration, loss of blood, severe infections, allergic reactions, and pancreatitis.

      Certain medications may also cause hypotension. These medications include diuretics, antidepressants, alpha and beta blockers, nitrates, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, Viagra, and certain medications used to treat Parkinson's disease.

      There is no proof that weight loss directly causes hypotension, although a lack of proper nutrients in your diet and dehydration caused by extreme physical activity can cause low blood pressure. If you've experienced weight loss due to excessive exercise and changes in your diet, that may play a role in hypotension.

      While dieting, important vitamins and nutrients are often sacrificed when eliminating certain foods. "A lack of the vitamins B-12 and folate can cause anemia, a condition in which your body doesn't produce enough red blood cells, causing low blood pressure," says the Mayo Clinic.

      Dehydration from exercising may also lead to low blood pressure. "Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in. You may become dehydrated if you don't drink enough fluids or if you sweat a lot during physical activity," according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

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