Depending on the severity of the condition, vitamins, diet and exercise can help alleviate hypertension, or high blood pressure. Hypertension is a serious, chronic disease that can lead to heart attack, stroke or even death. Often the condition has no symptoms. Doctors can treat hypertension successfully with medication. A normal blood pressure reading is when your systolic pressure, or the top number, is below 120 and your diastolic pressure, or the bottom number, is below 80. Consult with a physician before trying to treat hypertension with vitamins.
Vitamin D and Calcium
Taking vitamin D along with calcium can sometimes help lower blood pressure. Obesity is a risk factor for developing hypertension. In the October 2001 issue of the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition," Dr. Michael Zemel wrote that vitamin D and calcium had a "significant antiobesity effect." In Dr. Zemel's clinical trial, patients taking vitamin D and calcium experienced weight reduction and a decrease in blood pressure.
Vitamin C
Taking vitamin C supplements can help reduce high blood pressure, at least in the short-term. The antioxidant properties present in vitamin C may help lower high blood pressure and reduce arterial stiffness. In the December 2002 issue of "Hypertension," Dr. Laura Svetkey noted that there is little evidence that the reduction has lasting effects. As of 2010, additional research is needed.
Vitamin E
As with vitamin C, the antioxidant properties in vitamin E may help lower high blood pressure. Antioxidants help protect cells in the body from free radicals. Free radicals are produced naturally in the body and are also encountered through environmental factors such as radiation. Left unchecked, free radicals can damage cells. In a study examining the effect of high doses of vitamin E on rats for 10 weeks, the study subjects experienced lowered blood pressure.
References
- Journal of the American College of Nutrition: Calcium Modulation of Hypertension and Obesity: Mechanisms and Implications
- "Hypertension"; Blood Pressure Effects of Vitamin C; Dr. Laura P. Svetkey; December 2002
- "Hypertension Research"; Effects of Vitamin E and Sesamin on Hypertension; Takanori Noguchi, Ph.D.; November 2001
