Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition involving a chronically elevated pressure of the blood flow in the arteries. Normal blood pressure is listed as 120/80, with the 120 representing the systolic, or peak pressure, and the 80 representing the diastolic, or minimum pressure. Patients with a blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89 are considered pre-hypertensive, and those with a blood pressure of 140/90 are considered hypertensive. Research has shown that certain vitamins play a role in blood-pressure regulation.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin and also considered an antioxidant. It aids in the production of collagen, skin, cartilage, tendons and blood vessels. It is also important for healing and the immune system. It can be acquired through a healthy diet that includes fruits and vegetables. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, population studies have shown that people who eat a diet rich in antioxidants have a lower incidence of high blood pressure.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient that is easily acquired through exposure to UVB rays from the sun. A recent study by Ibhar Al Mheid, MD, from Emory University School of Medicine, was presented at the annual American College of Cardiology meeting in 2011 and showed a connection between vitamin D deficiency and hypertension. In studying 554 participants, Mheid looked at the blood levels of vitamin D and how they related to hypertension. What he found was that a deficiency in vitamin D caused the arteries to become stiff, and the blood vessels were unable to relax, which in turn caused the high blood pressure. When the participants were treated for vitamin D deficiency, their blood pressure levels returned to normal ranges.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that can be found in some foods and as a dietary supplement. Vitamin E is important for aiding in the use of vitamin K and in the formation of red blood cells. A 2002 study in the "International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research" made a connection between vitamin E and the reduction of blood pressure for those suffering from mild hypertension. The conclusion of the study stated that a vitamin E supplement of 200 International Units, or IU, per day can be effective in the reduction of blood pressure.
Potassium
Potassium is a mineral and an electrolyte that is essential for the function of cells, tissues and organs within the body. Potassium can be found in meats, some fish, fruits, vegetables and legumes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, potassium deficiency has been associated with high blood pressure, and the addition of potassium can cause a decrease in pressure. Because too much potassium can cause toxicity, it is important to consult with your doctor before adding a potassium supplement to your diet.
References
- Medical News Today; What Is Hypertension? What Causes Hypertension?; May 2009
- Emory University; Vitamin D Levels Connected to Health of Blood Vessels; Jennifer Johnson; April 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid); Steven D. Ehrlich; June 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin E; Steven D. Ehrlich; December 2009
- "International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research"; Vitamin E Can Reduce Blood Pressure in Mild Hypertensives; M. Boshtam, et al.; October 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Potassium; Steven D. Ehrlich; May 2009
