High Blood Pressure & Kidney Disease - NIDDK
9 Natural & Effective Ways To Lower Blood Pressure, According To Heart Experts
Medication-free strategies to help you manage your high blood pressure.
Reviewed by Dietitian Maria Laura Haddad-Garcia
One of the many reasons I love being a dietitian is sharing with people how powerful food truly is. Certain foods can help manage health conditions such as diabetes, and others can help support the healthy functioning of internal systems such as our digestive tract. Even more so, food can also boost our energy levels, improve our mood and lower blood pressure, which is especially important for those managing hypertension.
Nearly half of adults in the United States have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Hypertension occurs when the force of blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high. Having hypertension can put you at increased risk for heart disease and stroke.
The good news is that there are countless ways to manage blood pressure through food choices and lifestyle modifications without relying on medications. To help you navigate these options, we spoke to a team of heart-health experts, including a cardiologist and two registered dietitians. They've shared science-backed tips to help you lower blood pressure naturally.
Related: The #1 Herb for Healthy Blood Pressure, According to Experts
1. Watch Out for SodiumOn average, American adults consume a whopping 3,400 milligrams of sodium daily, most of which actually doesn't come from the saltshaker. Pankaj Lal, M.D., FACC, a board-certified cardiologist and owner of Capital Cardiac Care in Maryland, says, "The American Heart Association recommends anyone with hypertension to limit their sodium intake to 1,500 mg a day."
Most people's high salt intake may come from pre-made meals, as meals we eat out tend to have higher amounts of sodium compared to home-cooked meals. It may also come from other salty culprits like condiments, canned foods and snacks like pretzels, crackers or chips. You may be surprised to discover that your favorite BBQ sauce is sky-high in sodium. Lal also recommends using substitutes like dried herbs and spices instead of salt when cooking at home.
Related: Salt vs. Sodium: What's the Difference? Health Experts Explain
2. Focus on Potassium"Did you know that potassium does the exact opposite of sodium in your body?" says Veronica Rouse, M.A.N., RD, CDE, owner of The Heart Dietitian. She says, "Incorporating more potassium-rich foods like spinach, sweet potatoes, legumes and avocados into your diet, you can help balance out the negative effects of salt on your blood pressure." While sodium increases your blood pressure due to promoting fluid retention, potassium not only lessens the effects of sodium but also helps reduce tension in your blood vessel walls.
So whip up a spinach salad, add sweet potatoes to your next batch of chili, use lentils to make burgers, and toss avocados into your morning smoothie to bump up your intake of potassium-rich foods.
Related: 8 Foods With More Potassium Than a Banana
3. Choose Whole GrainsBonnie Taub-Dix, RDN, media dietitian, creator of BetterThanDieting.Com and author of Read It Before You Eat It: Taking You from Label to Table, says, "Whole grains may improve heart health because they are rich in fiber and can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels." She says the first ingredients listed on a bread product should be "whole grains" or "whole wheat." Other whole grains she says you can also toss into your shopping cart are brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, sorghum and oats.
4. Get MovingPlopping down on the couch after a long day sounds more appealing than lacing up sneakers and hitting the gym, but moving more has heart benefits. "The best cure for high blood pressure is being active. Try at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week, or vigorous activity for 75 minutes per week," says Lal. Find a form of movement you enjoy so you'll stick with it. Dancing, walking, Pilates and cycling all count toward your physical activity minutes.
5. Load Up on CalciumNot only is calcium a bone supporter, but eating enough calcium can also support healthy blood pressure. Rouse says, "Calcium helps blood vessels tighten and relax when needed, allowing for smoother blood flow and reducing stress on the artery walls." If you love dairy, yogurt, cottage cheese, cheese and milk are great options to meet your goals. If you don't like dairy or have lactose intolerance, you can get enough calcium by sipping fortified orange juice and eating kale, spinach, tofu, canned salmon or sardines.
Related: 10 Foods with More Calcium than a Glass of Milk
6. Nosh on Nuts and SeedsWhether you prefer to crack open pistachios, walnuts, almonds or sunflower seeds, noshing on seeds and nuts can help lower the risk of heart disease. Taub-Dix says, "Nuts and seeds have been shown to support heart health, and they provide magnesium and potassium, fiber, antioxidants and vitamins that may help to reduce blood pressure." The beauty of nuts and seeds is their versatility. You can sprinkle them on almost any dish, such as cereal, oats, yogurt, grain bowls, soup or salad. They add a nutty flavor and plenty of crunch. Just be sure to choose unsalted varieties.
7. Limit AlcoholLimiting your nightly glass (or glasses) of vino or beer can keep your heart happy. Lal says, "Consistent and excessive use of alcohol on a daily basis may also increase your risk of hypertension. Guidelines state no more than two servings a day for males and one serving a day for females." For reference, one serving is equivalent to 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of liquor. That said, you don't have to cut out alcohol completely (unless recommended by your health care provider). For a delicious and booze-free option, try one of our mocktail recipes.
8. Eat More MagnesiumMagnesium is one of the busiest minerals; it's involved in over 300 bodily functions and plays a role in blood pressure regulation. Rouse says, "Magnesium is an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels." Luckily, magnesium is found in many delicious foods like whole-wheat bread, pumpkin seeds, almonds, spinach, cashews, black beans and dark chocolate.
9. Boost Up on BerriesGrab a bowl of berries for a heart-healthy boost. Taub-Dix says, "Berries are rich in natural compounds called flavonoids, which play a role in controlling hypertension." Research has shown that berries may help normalize blood pressure in people with hypertension. Plus, berries also contain lots of fiber, and a high-fiber diet positively affects blood pressure.
Other Tips for Managing Your Blood PressureWhile the previous strategies can help with managing blood pressure, here are other helpful tips:
Make sure you're meeting your daily fluid needs. Dehydration can also lead to high blood pressure over a prolonged period of time. While water is a great way to stay hydrated, incorporating water-rich foods and other drinks like coffee, tea or juice also helps with proper hydration.
If you've been searching for a structured plan for what you should eat each day, the DASH diet and Mediterranean diet are both well-regarded for blood pressure control. Look through our 30 days of DASH diet recipes for inspiration.
Maintaining a healthy weight can also help decrease blood pressure. "Regulating your blood pressure can be a frustrating process, but with the combination of a healthy diet, adequate exercise and keeping a healthy weight, managing blood pressure becomes much easier to do," says Lal.
Only medications can lower blood pressure quickly. It is normal for blood pressure to fluctuate throughout the day. It may increase when you are active or stressed and lower at rest. While lifestyle changes can't provide an immediate fix, they are crucial for long-term management.
Does drinking water lower blood pressure?Staying well-hydrated and meeting daily fluid goals can help keep blood pressure healthy. However, drinking a single glass of water will not immediately lower blood pressure.
Can you reverse high blood pressure naturally?Sticking to a heart-healthy diet and engaging in regular activity can help manage high blood pressure and potentially even reverse it. Diet and lifestyle modifications are usually the first line of care when treating high blood pressure. If blood pressure remains high after implementing these modifications, medications are prescribed to assist with lowering it.
Do bananas lower blood pressure?Bananas contain potassium, fiber and vitamin C, which can all support a healthy heart. However, no single food can lower high blood pressure. It is essential to follow a well-balanced, heart-healthy diet.
The Bottom LineIf you have high blood pressure, diet and lifestyle modifications, like following a heart-healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity, can support your heart and manage blood pressure. Always consult with your health care team for personalized advice before beginning a new diet or exercise program.
Read the original article on Eating Well.
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The Best Natural Blood Pressure Medication: 5 Natural Supplements For Reducing Blood Pressure
Sponsored ContentHigh blood pressure, or hypertension, is known as the "silent killer" because it typically presents no symptoms yet poses serious risks like heart disease and stroke. A staggering 103 million Americans have high blood pressure, emphasizing the importance of maintaining normal levels, defined as below 120/80 mm Hg. While blood pressure medication may be necessary in severe cases, emerging evidence supports diet, exercise, and natural supplements – especially those that increase nitric oxide levels – as practical approaches to preventing and managing this pervasive condition.
Natural blood pressure medication acts as a first line of defense against hypertension, reducing the likelihood that prescription medication will be necessary. Understanding how natural substances such as beetroot, olive leaf, and folate can support healthy blood pressure is crucial for those seeking alternatives to traditional medication. A blend of lifestyle modifications and natural supplements makes it possible to take charge of your blood pressure and improve your overall health.
We'll start by exploring the best natural blood pressure medications currently available, starting with the most effective, HeartBeets, and working from there. Once we've covered the alternatives to medicine, we'll explore lifestyle changes, explain how the specific ingredients found in natural blood pressure medication work in detail, and discuss how to integrate these into your lifestyle to bring blood pressure down naturally.
The Top 5 Best Natural Blood Pressure MedicationHeartBeets contains 13 natural ingredients that can dramatically improve blood pressure, returning it to normal levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is the best, most effective natural treatment for hypertension that we've found.
Featuring a winning combination of high-dosed ingredients, including beetroot extract, olive leaf, folate, green tea extract, hawthorn, vitamin C, magnesium, garlic powder, Q10, B vitamins, and hibiscus, HeartBeets is the ultimate natural blood pressure medication.
HeartBeets can reduce blood pressure by rapidly increasing nitric oxide synthesis and production, relaxing and dilating blood vessels, and improving circulation. In addition, it contains ingredients that protect against heart disease and ensure the cardiovascular system is supported.
Manufactured in certified cGMP facilities in the USA, HeartBeets is a high-quality supplement with verified ingredients. It is supported by science and a growing number of positive customer reviews.
Our experience with HeartBeets was very positive. Results began to show after just two weeks of use. We experienced more regular blood pressure results; the longer we took it, the better they were. It helps blood vessels relax, allowing blood flow and reducing hypertension, and it does so better and faster than anything we've ever tested before.
ProsHeart Sheild can help reduce high blood pressure by using only natural ingredients provided at proper doses. Heart Sheild also contains vitamins and minerals that protect against cardiovascular disease, protecting your heart from harm.
Heart Sheild's natural formula is a great natural blood pressure medication. It uses a high dose of beetroot extract combined with olive leaf, folate, vitamin C, and hibiscus, among other things.
Heart Sheild increases nitric oxide production, relaxes blood vessels, and increases vasodilation. Together, these effects result in lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It also defends the heart against cardiovascular disease and provides the heart with energy.
Each of the ingredients in Heart Sheild is supported by science and has been shown to control high blood pressure in several studies. The product is also manufactured in a certified facility, guaranteeing its quality.
Our experience using Heart Sheild was positive. After three weeks of use, we recorded a mild reduction in blood pressure, with the results increasing the longer we used it. Therefore, we can confirm that Heart Sheild is an effective supplement for controlling blood pressure and treating hypertension.
ProsSnap Supplements Heart Health Support contains abundant natural ingredients that can help lower blood pressure and prevent the need for prescription blood pressure medication. If taken preemptively, it can also reduce hypertension risk.
This product contains vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements that help reduce blood pressure. These include vitamin D, magnesium, olive leaf, hibiscus, pomegranate fruit powder, and garlic extract. In addition to containing vitamins and minerals, the ingredients are included in proprietary blends: The Blood Pressure Complex and Nitric Oxide Flow.
The proprietary blends mean we don't have any information regarding the doses of most of the ingredients. Therefore, while Heart Health Support contains good ingredients supported by science, we don't know precisely how effective it will be because we have no dose information.
Based on what we know, this blood pressure supplement will have mild blood pressure-reducing effects on most people. It will help against mild hypertension by somewhat increasing nitric oxide levels and relaxing blood vessels. Thanks to the vitamins and minerals, heart health is also boosted.
Snap Supplements Heart Health Support is manufactured in a cGMP facility, ensuring its quality, and it has received quite a few positive customer reviews.
Our experience of using Snap Supplements Heart Health Support was generally positive. It took quite a few weeks of taking the supplement to experience any change in blood pressure, but after about a month, we noticed our readings dropping. This is probably due to the product's low doses of ingredients in the proprietary blends, which undermine its effectiveness. However, it does have a mild effect in the end, so you need to be patient.
ProsUltraLife Blood Pressure Support is an affordable option for reducing your blood pressure. It contains good ingredients but very low doses, so it takes a while to work. The results are very mild but cheap.
UltraLife contains a mix of herbal supplements, vitamins, and minerals. These include olive leaf, garlic extract, folate (folic acid), hibiscus, hawthorn, and vitamin C. All good ingredients, but UltraLife has very low doses of each. It has enough vitamin B6 to protect against cardiovascular disease and hawthorn extract, which dilates blood vessels.
This supplement helps lower blood pressure by mildly dilating and relaxing blood vessels and has some effect on nitric oxide levels. Given the doses, it is unlikely that it will stop hypertension altogether, but it can control high blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease.
Made according to GMP standards in NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) facilities, UltraLife Blood Pressure Support is a reasonably good quality supplement. Reviews are average, which is to be expected from a budget version of a natural blood pressure medication.
Our experience using UltraLife Blood Pressure Support was okay. It took over a month to notice its effects, which was frustrating. However, it eventually began controlling blood pressure and reducing hypertension incidence. It is not the most effective natural blood pressure medication, but it is a good choice if you can't afford anything else.
ProsPurePremium Blood Pressure Support contains similar ingredients to UltraLife, but everything is slightly under, and the product is more expensive. It may assist in regulating both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, but the impact is insignificant.
The key ingredients in PurePremium Blood Pressure Support are folate, hibiscus, garlic powder, and olive leaf. These are solid ingredients supported by science to lower blood pressure. However, this supplement causes all of them to be underdosed.
PurePremium Blood Pressure Support supports blood pressure control by having a small impact on nitric oxide levels and reducing oxidative stress on the blood vessels.
Although made in the USA, PurePremium Blood Pressure Support does not mention the quality of the facilities where it is produced. This means we can't verify the quality of this product and its ingredients.
Our experience of using PurePremium Blood Pressure Support was okay. Like UltraLife, it took more than a month to start to work. This is because the doses are just too low, so it took a while for the body to feel the effects. Once it did start to work, the results were not that impressive, but they had a mild impact on blood pressure levels. It could perhaps be used as a preventative measure, but for hypertensive patients, it's not a great option as the results are just too mild.
ProsHigh blood pressure is a significant health concern, leading to potential complications such as heart disease and stroke. Addressing hypertension through diet, exercise, and natural supplements is essential, as these can help manage blood pressure levels and improve overall cardiovascular health. Nitric oxide plays a vital role in vascular health, and natural substances like beetroot extract, olive leaf, folate, and garlic powder can boost its production, aiding in blood pressure control. Here is a list of the top natural ingredients for managing blood pressure, together with an explanation of how they work:
BeetrootBeetroot contains high levels of dietary nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a potent vasodilator that relaxes and widens blood vessels, improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure. By promoting vasodilation, beetroot helps reduce blood flow resistance, thereby supporting healthy blood pressure levels.
FolateFolate, also known as vitamin B9, is crucial in supporting cardiovascular health by relaxing blood vessels and reducing blood pressure. It promotes vasodilation and regulates blood pressure by supporting nitric oxide production. By enhancing vasodilation, folate contributes to maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Garlic PowderGarlic powder contains bioactive compounds that relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure. These compounds promote cardiovascular health by enhancing blood flow and relaxing blood vessels, helping maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Olive LeafOlive leaf extract has been found to improve circulation by relaxing blood vessels. This helps improve circulation and maintains healthy blood pressure levels. Olive leaf extract promotes cardiovascular health and optimal blood pressure levels by supporting vasodilation.
Green Tea ExtractGreen tea contains bioactive compounds associated with lowering blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels. These compounds contribute to cardiovascular health by supporting healthy blood pressure levels and promoting overall well-being.
Q10 (Coenzyme Q10)Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, provides essential energy for the heart and supports overall cardiovascular health. CoQ10 maintains healthy blood pressure levels and heart function by aiding cell energy production and supporting cardiovascular well-being.
HawthornHawthorn has been traditionally used to dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow, and support healthy blood pressure levels. Its vasodilatory properties contribute to the relaxation and widening of blood vessels, thereby aiding in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and cardiovascular function.
Ginger ExtractGinger extract has been found to improve vasodilation and relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. The ginger extract promotes cardiovascular health and optimal blood pressure levels by supporting vasodilation.
It's crucial to consult with healthcare providers before starting any new supplement regimen, as the FDA does not strictly regulate dietary supplements, and their quality can vary.
Natural Blood Pressure Medication Buying GuideNatural supplements can offer a valuable alternative to more severe prescription medications when managing blood pressure. Natural supplements can help lower blood pressure by addressing various physiological mechanisms, such as promoting vasodilation, relaxing blood vessels, reducing oxidative stress, and supporting overall cardiovascular health. By harnessing the beneficial properties of ingredients like beetroot, folate, garlic powder, olive leaf, green tea extract, Q10, hawthorn, and ginger extract, these supplements can contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure levels without the potential side effects associated with certain prescription medications.
When considering natural blood pressure supplements, product quality is paramount. Look for supplements manufactured in cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) certified facilities. This certification ensures that the supplements are produced in facilities that adhere to strict quality control standards, providing the products' purity, potency, and safety. Additionally, products made in cGMP facilities are more likely to be free from contaminants and accurately labeled, assuring quality and efficacy.
Natural blood pressure supplements' effectiveness highly depends on their ingredients. Clinically researched ingredients such as beetroot, folate, garlic powder, olive leaf, green tea extract, Q10, hawthorn, and ginger extract have been shown to support healthy blood pressure levels through various mechanisms, including vasodilation, relaxation of blood vessels, and reduction of oxidative stress. When choosing a natural blood pressure supplement, it's essential to carefully review the ingredients to ensure that they align with your specific health needs and goals.
Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and tolerability of natural blood pressure supplements. Reading reviews from individuals who have used the products can offer real-world perspectives on their experiences, including any benefits they have experienced and potential side effects. Look for products with favorable customer reviews highlighting improvements in blood pressure management and overall well-being.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are currently taking prescription medications or have underlying health conditions. By prioritizing product quality, understanding the ingredients, and considering customer reviews, you can make an informed decision when selecting natural blood pressure supplements to support your health and well-being.
Natural Blood Pressure Medication FAQs Q: What Are Natural Blood Pressure Medications?A: They are dietary supplements formulated with natural ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, plant extracts, and herbal compounds, designed to support healthy blood pressure levels.
Q: How Can Natural Blood Pressure Medications Help Lower Blood Pressure?A: They can do this through various mechanisms, including promoting vasodilation, relaxing blood vessels, reducing oxidative stress, and supporting cardiovascular health. These supplements can address underlying factors that contribute to high blood pressure.
Q: What Are the Benefits of Choosing Natural Blood Pressure Medications Over Prescription Drugs?A: Choosing natural blood pressure medications over prescription drugs offers the potential for managing blood pressure without the potential side effects of certain prescription medications. Additionally, natural supplements can provide a more holistic approach to supporting cardiovascular health.
Q: What Ingredients Should I Look for in Natural Blood Pressure Medications?A: Look for natural blood pressure medications that contain clinically researched ingredients, such as beetroot extract, garlic powder, olive leaf extract, green tea extract, Coenzyme Q10 (Q10), hawthorn, and ginger extract. These ingredients have been shown to support healthy blood pressure levels through various physiological mechanisms.
Q: Are Natural Blood Pressure Medications Safe to Use?A: When natural blood pressure medications are used as directed and in consultation with a healthcare professional, they can be safe for many individuals. However, it's essential to consider potential interactions with existing medications and underlying health conditions.
Q: How Do I Choose a High-quality Natural Blood Pressure Medication?A: When choosing a natural blood pressure medication, look for products manufactured in cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) certified facilities. Additionally, consider the ingredients and customer reviews, and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure the product's quality and suitability for your specific health needs.
Q: Can Natural Blood Pressure Medications Be Used Alongside Prescription Medications?A: It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using natural blood pressure products and prescription medications to ensure no potential interactions or adverse effects.
Q: What Lifestyle Changes Should Be Made Alongside Using Natural Blood Pressure Medications?A: To support overall cardiovascular health, in addition to using natural blood pressure medications, it's essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, stress management, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.
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Please understand that any advice or guidelines revealed here are not even remotely substitutes for sound medical or financial advice from a licensed healthcare provider or certified financial advisor. Make sure to consult with a professional physician or financial consultant before making any purchasing decision if you use medications or have concerns following the review details shared above. Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed as the statements regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA, or Health Canada approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and do not provide any kind of get-rich money scheme. Reviewer is not responsible for pricing inaccuracies. Check product sales page for final prices.
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One in two adult Americans have high blood pressure. This is a startling fact, given that high blood pressure is linked to heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure. What's more, less than half of all adults with high blood pressure have been diagnosed, which presents a severe health risk. Thankfully, there are several lifestyle changes that you can adopt to avoid high blood pressure and lower blood pressure if it is already high. These include regular exercise, a healthy diet, reducing alcohol intake, and using dietary supplements.
Dietary supplements to lower blood pressure have become increasingly popular as recent research has demonstrated how effective safe, natural ingredients can be. Moreover, a quality blood pressure supplement can be easily integrated into your daily routine. It may help prevent you from having to take more dangerous, side-effect-prone blood pressure medication later in life.
The older you get, the more critical healthy blood pressure becomes as your chances of severe cardiovascular disease increase with age. Treating high blood pressure as soon as possible and before it becomes a severe problem is best. That's where making lifestyle changes and taking a quality blood pressure supplement come in.
We will discuss the best supplements to lower blood pressure, including the top three products on the market – HeartBeets, Heart Shield, and UltraLife Blood Pressure Support – and other quality products worth considering. We'll explain why these are the best supplements for lowering blood pressure and how they can improve and protect your cardiovascular health long-term.
The Best Supplements to Lower Blood Pressure NaturallyHeartBeets "Beat blood pressure problems" tagline promotes their top-quality BP supplement. Fast becoming the number one product in America for reducing blood pressure, HeartBeets uses a combination of natural, science-backed ingredients provided at optimal doses.
The key ingredients are beetroot extract, folate, olive leaf, garlic powder, magnesium, coenzyme Q10, vitamin C, B complex vitamins, and hawthorn. There are 13 active ingredients in HeartBeets, each of which can help reduce blood pressure and ensure a healthy heart.
The main effect of these ingredients is to increase nitric oxide production and availability. Beetroot extract is packed with nitrates that the body converts into nitric oxide, while folate massively increases the bioavailability of nitric oxide, as does olive leaf. Higher levels of nitric oxide lead to better blood flow, relax blood vessels, and improve vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels). It also carries more oxygen around the body, improving heart function. In short, if you want low blood pressure, you need more nitric oxide, and HeartBeets contains everything you need to get it.
HeartBeets is an easy-to-consume supplement that helps lower blood pressure by providing all the essential ingredients. What's more, HeartBeets protects against cardiovascular diseases and ensures your heart is healthy and robust.
HeartBeets ProsOur second favorite supplement for lower blood pressure is Heart Shield. This well-formulated dietary supplement targets blood pressure from multiple directions while protecting heart health. Like HeartBeets, it is a premium blood pressure supplement with top-notch ingredients at optimum doses and a price tag to match.
With ingredients that strengthen blood vessel walls, protect the cardiovascular system, lower high blood pressure, and increase blood flow, Heart Shield is well worth consideration. While more expensive than other supplements, it will undoubtedly be much more effective and worth the extra cost.
Heart Shield contains vitamin C for blood vessel protection and magnesium to regulate BP. In addition, it contains ingredients that boost nitric oxide production, ensuring healthy circulation.
Combining vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements, Heart Shield is an excellent blood pressure supplement that can lower blood pressure quickly and efficiently.
Heart Shield ProsThe UltraLife Blood Pressure Support formula focuses on herbal supplements combined with a couple of vitamins and minerals. Hawthorn, garlic powder, hibiscus, olive leaf, and folate are quality blood pressure supplements.
This supplement contains much lower doses of every ingredient than HeartBeets and Heart Shield, reflected in the product's lower price. However, while it is cheaper, it's worth remembering that it will not be anywhere near as practical.
Our analysis suggests this product could help to reduce mild hypertension, though results will be slower and less impressive. What's more, it does not contain any beetroot, and the dose of folate is very low, which means you are unlikely to experience a dramatic increase in nitric oxide production.
That said, it does include ingredients supported by science to lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
UltraLife Blood Pressure Support ProsPurePremium Blood Pressure Support is an effective supplement that can help reduce high BP. Using a combination of herbal supplements, vitamins, and minerals, it targets blood vessel health, reduces oxidative stress, and promotes easy blood flow.
It's far from the most effective blood pressure supplement, but it's a decent option. It contains many of the same ingredients found in Ultra Life Blood Pressure Support, though in most cases in slightly lower doses.
This supplement will support blood pressure regulation, but the results will be low to mild, and it is slightly more expensive than the UltraLife supplement.
PurePremium Blood Pressure Support ProsBluebonnet Target Choice Blood Pressure Support includes exciting and effective ingredients for lowering blood pressure. Along with the usual herbs and vitamins, it consists of a small dose of coenzyme Q10, which delivers energy to the heart. Although the dose of Q10 in this supplement is only a third of the amount found in HeartBeets, we're nonetheless impressed that it has been included.
In addition, this supplement contains a decent dose of magnesium, olive leaf, hibiscus, hawthorn, and grape seed extract. Again, most ingredients are under-dosed compared to the premium blood pressure supplements so that the effects will be mild, but this supplement is on the right track.
Bluebonnet Target Choice Blood Pressure Support ProsClaiming to tackle two issues at once – high blood pressure and cholesterol – this ambitious supplement doesn't quite live up to its bold claims. That said, the Approved Science Bloodsyl Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Support supplement contains a handful of decent ingredients, some reasonably dosed. In particular, it provides plenty of B vitamins and a respectable dose of hawthorn.
However, most ingredients are under-dosed, and some are relatively ineffective, such as the folate, which is included at 200mg. We hope to see at least 1000mg of folate to be considered effective at reducing blood pressure.
Nevertheless, this half-decent supplement still outperforms most of the available rubbish. Unfortunately, it's priced like a premium supplement, which it isn't.
Approved Science Bloodsyl ProsHypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common health concern that can lead to severe complications if left unmanaged. Fortunately, several effective strategies, including lifestyle modifications, dietary choices, and exercise routines, can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of hypertension. This comprehensive guide will explore these strategies and discuss using nutritional supplements as a beneficial option.
Maintain a Healthy WeightMaintaining a healthy weight is crucial in preventing hypertension. Excess weight puts strain on the heart, leading to elevated blood pressure. Aim for a body mass index (BMI) within the healthy range (18.5-24.9) through a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
Exercise RegularlyRegular physical activity is essential for managing blood pressure. Engage in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling for at least 150 minutes or vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise for at least 75 minutes per week. Additionally, incorporate strength training exercises at least twice weekly to support cardiovascular health further.
Limit Alcohol ConsumptionExcessive alcohol consumption can lead to an increase in blood pressure. It's important to limit alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one drink per day for women.
Manage StressChronic stress can contribute to hypertension. Engage in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or time in nature to help manage stress levels effectively.
Quit SmokingSmoking is a significant risk factor for hypertension. If you smoke, seek support to quit smoking, as it can significantly improve blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.
Follow a Balanced DietA balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy blood pressure. Emphasize a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting processed foods, saturated fats, and added sugars.
Reduce Sodium IntakeExcessive sodium consumption can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Aim to consume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, ideally closer to 1,500 milligrams for those with hypertension or at risk of developing it.
Increase Potassium-Rich FoodsPotassium helps in regulating blood pressure. Incorporate potassium-rich foods such as bananas, oranges, potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes into your diet to support healthy blood pressure levels.
Manage PortionsControlling portion sizes is essential in preventing overeating, which can contribute to weight gain and elevated blood pressure. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid oversized servings.
Consult with a Healthcare ProfessionalBefore considering any dietary supplement regimen, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you are already taking medications or have underlying health conditions. They can provide personalized recommendations and ensure there are no potential interactions with existing treatments.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Blood Pressure Supplement IngredientsLook for supplements containing proven ingredients such as beetroot, folate, magnesium, potassium, Coenzyme Q10, and certain plant extracts like hibiscus, hawthorn, garlic, or olive leaf extract, which have demonstrated potential to support healthy blood pressure.
DosageEnsure the supplement provides an effective dosage of the active ingredients, as some studies suggest specific dosage ranges for optimal blood pressure support.
SafetyChoose supplements from reputable brands that adhere to quality and safety standards. Look for certifications such as USP, NSF, or GMP on the product label.
EfficacyResearch the scientific evidence supporting the supplement's efficacy in managing blood pressure. Look for clinical studies and meta-analyses that demonstrate the effectiveness of the ingredients.
FormulationConsider the formulation's bioavailability and potential synergistic effects of combined ingredients. For example, some supplements may include ingredients that enhance the absorption or activity of others.
Beneficial Dietary Supplements in DetailWhile dietary supplements should not replace a balanced diet, some have shown potential in supporting healthy blood pressure levels. These include:
FolateFolate supplementation has been associated with potential benefits for lowering blood pressure levels. Studies have shown that folate may help reduce blood pressure in people with heart disease and protect against high blood pressure in young adulthood.
Olive Leaf ExtractOlive leaf extract has been traditionally used for its potential antihypertensive properties. While previous studies have reported reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure after consuming olive leaf extract, further randomized placebo-controlled trials are needed to confirm its potential cardiometabolic health benefits.
Beetroot ExtractStudies show that beetroot supplements can lower blood pressure in people with or without elevated levels. Research suggests that beetroot juice may lower blood pressure levels, making beetroot a potential dietary supplement for managing hypertension. Its key benefit is providing the body with nitrites that are used to create nitric oxide.
Importance of Nitric Oxide in Maintaining Normal Blood PressureNitric oxide (NO) plays a crucial role in maintaining normal blood pressure through its effects on blood vessels and circulation. Here's why it's important:
VasodilationNitric oxide is a potent vasodilator that relaxes the smooth muscle cells in blood vessels, leading to their dilation. This dilation widens blood vessels, reducing peripheral resistance and lowering blood pressure.
Endothelial FunctionThe endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels, primarily produces nitric oxide. It helps regulate vascular tone, inflammation, and platelet aggregation, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Blood Flow RegulationNitric oxide facilitates the relaxation of blood vessels, promoting healthy flow and reducing the workload on the heart. This process is crucial for maintaining optimal blood pressure and preventing hypertension.
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