If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you may be interested in supplements that can help control this silent killer. Research continues to find that some supplements may be effective for lowering your numbers. They also can be cheaper than medication. However, whenever you deal with a condition that affects vital body functions, you should always consult your doctor. High blood pressure is a serious health disorder that requires careful monitoring.
Side Effects
Several blood pressure medications have side effects that you may find uncomfortable. Lisinopril, a common blood pressure medication, can cause dizziness, cough and gastrointestinal upset. Bear in mind that taking supplements is not a substitute for a doctor's care.
Causes
If you know the common causes of high blood pressure, it can help you select supplements that may be appropriate for you. Family history plays a key role. While you may not have any control over that, you can control others, such as your weight. Excess weight places strain on your cardiovascular system. Chromium picolinate has potential as a supplement for weight loss and thus for lowering blood pressure. A 1998 study published in the journal Advances in Therapy produced compelling evidence that chromium picolinate can increase the rate of body fat loss. However, the overall evidence supporting its use is inconsistent.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Some evidence suggests that dietary deficiencies may cause high blood pressure, according to WholeHealthMD.com. Specifically, low levels of coenzyme Q10 have been identified as a possible cause. A 2003 study published in the journal BioFactors found that coenzyme Q10 lowered blood pressure in the study's participants. Likewise, calcium deficiencies may also impact your blood pressure. A 1999 study in the American Journal of Hypertension found that calcium supplementation can have a positive effect on blood pressure.
Drug Interactions
While some supplements may offer some benefits, you should be aware of possible drug interactions when taking supplements for blood pressure, especially if you are taking prescription medications. Fish oil has been touted as an effective way to lower blood pressure, according to a 2005 study in Frontiers in Bioscience. However, you should not take it if you are taking blood thinners, recommends Drugs.com. Both blood thinners and fish oil have similar effects on your cardiovascular system.
Federal Regulation
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, does not regulate dietary supplements. Its role is restricted to exposing misleading claims by manufacturers. A supplement may not be pulled from the market until claims have been filed with the FDA. You should always investigate health claims and look for reliable sources of information regarding the safe use of supplements. Your doctor can provide additional information.
References
- Drugs: Lisinopril
- Advances in Therapy; "Four-Week Supplementation with a Natural Dietary Compound Produces Favorable Changes in Body Composition"; W. Hoeger et al; September 1998
- BioFactors; "Systematic Review of Effect of Coenzyme Q10 in Physical Exercise, Hypertension and Heart Failure"; F. Rosenfeldt et al; 2003
- American Journal of Hypertension; "Influence.."; L. Griffith; January 1999
- Frontiers in Bioscience; "The Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Cardiac Protection: An Overview"; H. Ismail; May 2005
