Blood pressure is comprised of two forces: the systolic pressure, when the heart contracts and pumps the blood through the body; and the diastolic pressure, when the heart pauses between beats. Pumping blood through arteries that have weakened and scarred or have plaque or cholesterol buildup, requires your heart to pump harder, putting a strain on the system and possibly resulting in high blood pressure.
Vitamin D
High blood pressure (HBP) is a known link to cardiovascular disease, states the American Heart Association (AHA), and new evidence is pointing to vitamin D as a prevention to HBP. A study cited by the AHA notes that women between 20 years and mid 40s who have low vitamin D levels exhibit higher rates of increased systolic pressure 15 years later. Regular supplementation of vitamin D may decrease this risk. Vitamin D is made by your skin through exposure to sun or through dietary supplement. The recommended daily supplement dosage is 400 to 600 international units (IU).
Potassium
Although potassium is a mineral, evidence shows that it may assist in lowering blood pressure, claims the University of Maryland Medical Center. Potassium acts as an electrolyte that helps conduct electricity through your body. It plays an important role in the functioning of your heart and smooth muscle control. Potassium may be found in multivitamins as well as supplements; 2,000 mg is the daily recommended dose.
Magnesium
Magnesium may play a high profile role in maintaining healthy blood pressure. The journal "Nutrition in Clinical Practice" states that magnesium may be related to a number of chronic diseases including hypertension. It adds that a relationship appears to exist between low magnesium intake and high blood pressure. The journal cites studies that conclude that increasing magnesium in your diet may help lower your blood pressure.
