One in three American adults suffers from high blood pressure, according to the American Heat Association, AHA. The 74 million who have this medical condition, are at higher risk for other diseases, such as heart disease kidney failure, heart attack and stroke. High blood pressure, also called hypertension, or HBP, is treated with hypertensive medication, but research has shown that diet and exercise will lower blood pressure, states the AHA. Natural remedies can also help ease the symptoms of HBP.
Fiber
The fiber contained in grains and raw vegetables can help lower blood pressure. Oatmeal is a good source of fiber, as are raw vegetables and fruit. Nuts and seeds also contain many grams of fiber.
Salt
Reducing salt lowers blood pressure. Salt retains water in the body, which raises the blood pressure.The recommended intake for those with high blood pressure is below 1,500 mg a day, compared with 2,300 mg a day for an average diet. Using salt substitutes or spices, such as garlic powder to flavor food adds taste while not adding extra salt.
Lavender
Research conducted at Creighton University showed that lavender oil reduced blood pressure. After a massage with lavender oil, the research subjects showed a 50 percent reduction in blood pressure. In the study, the lavender massages also reduced heart rate by 91 percent, respiratory rate by 75 percent and decrease pain by 50 percent. Lavender is available as a dried herb and can be used in a tea or infusion. Lavender oil is used as a massage oil, or it can be added to a bath.
Potassium
Adding potassium to the diet lowers blood pressure, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. They recommend 4,77 mg of potassium daily. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of potassium. Raisins contain more than 1000 mg with only 60 mg of salt. Apricots contain 1,200 mg with only 15 mg of salt. Other good sources include bananas, citrus juices, avocados, potatoes, cantaloupes, tomatoes, Lima beans, salmon, chicken and cod fish. Potassium is also available as a nutritional supplements, as potassium acetate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium citrate, and potassium gluconate. It is frequently added to multivitamins as well. Because potassium can interact with other medications, consult with a medical professional before adding nutritional supplements to the diet. People with kidney disease or those who take ACE inhibitors are not advised to take potassium, states the University of Maryland Medical Center.
