High blood pressure, or hypertension, refers to the increased force that blood exerts on the walls of the arteries and veins. About one in three adults in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suffer from high blood pressure. The symptoms include confusion, buzzing in the ear, headache, arrhythmia, nosebleeds and fatigue. Along with diet and exercise, certain medications may also help manage high blood pressure. Supplements such as vitamin C may also benefit hypertension patients.
About Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin essential for growth and repair of the essential organs and tissues of the body. It is a powerful antioxidant and also helps improve the functioning of the immune system. The Linus Pauling Institute recommends 40 to 125 mg of vitamin C per day, depending on the age and overall health of the individual. It can be obtained from foods such as citrus fruits and their juices, cantaloupes, berries, green peppers, tomatoes and broccoli. Synthetic and natural vitamin C supplements are also available at most local pharmacies without a prescription. Your doctor may recommend them to treat a variety of conditions including diabetes, hypertension, cancer and common colds. The dose depends on the age and condition being treated.
Link Between Vitamin C and Blood Pressure
Some studies have indicated that vitamin C supplementation may help lower the blood pressure, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. However, more research is needed to prove these results conclusively. The institute also states that 500 mg of vitamin C may help dilate the blood vessels and thereby improve the blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease. A study published in the July 2010 issue of the journal "Human and Experimental Toxicology" also points out that vitamin C can prevent hypertension-induced damage of the blood, liver, brain and heart cell DNA and lower the blood pressure in laboratory animals. The University of Maryland Medical Center also states that vitamin C can regularize high blood pressure. It can also prevent pre-eclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure in pregnant women that can lead to premature delivery.
Side Effects
Vitamin C supplements are generally safe to use, although high doses can cause gastric upset and diarrhea. They may also lead to increased absorption of iron in the body and should be avoided by individuals with hemochromatosis. The supplements may also interfere with certain oral contraceptives, pain medications and chemotherapy drugs.
Precautions
Always talk to a doctor before using vitamin C supplements to manage blood pressure. Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions or other medications before starting a vitamin C regimen.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; High Blood Pressure Facts; March 2011
- Linus Pauling Institute; Vitamin C; November 2009
- "Human and Experimental Toxicology"; Vitamin C Prevents DNA Damage Induced by Renovascular Hypertension in Multiple Organs of Wistar Rats; Erika Emy Nishi, et al.; July 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin C; June 2009
