Assorted Vitamins
High blood pressure is a serious cardiovascular disease that many people have. It can lead to stroke or death if not treated. Doctors usually prescribe medications including calcium channel blockers to treat the symptoms associated with high blood pressure. There are certain vitamins that can lower blood pressure naturally and may help individuals to reduce the amount of prescribed medication they take.
Vitamins
Some vitamins used to lower blood pressure are potassium, magnesium, calcium and vitamin C. Potassium not only helps blood pressure but may also reduce the risk of strokes and prevent kidney damage because it balances out electrolytes. Potassium works best with magnesium since patients who have high blood pressure often have magnesium deficiencies. Magnesium is responsible for protein breakdown, cellular functions and muscle relaxation, all of which help the heart to function properly. Calcium helps with the formation of bones, muscles, blood vessels and overall body functions. Vitamin C is essential because it has antioxidants and nitric oxide that help reduce inflammation in the blood vessels and lining of the muscles.
Other Vitamins
Other lesser known vitamins that may assist in reducing systolic and diastolic pressure are coenzyme Q10, niacin and selenium. Coenzyme Q10 is a natural substance our bodies make that assists in the function of blood cells, circulation and energy. Niacin opens the blood vessels and may reduce plaque in the arteries. Selenium has antioxidants and strengthens muscles, including those surrounding the heart.
Supplements
In addition to taking vitamins, nutritionists often recommend herbal supplements in conjunction with the vitamin therapy. Some of the herbal supplements are cayenne, rutin, hawthorn berry extract and garlic. These supplements assist in circulation, cell function and contain vitamin C and antioxidants. Since garlic can also thin the blood, it should only be used under doctor's supervision and shout not be taken before surgery.
Considerations
The best way to get these vitamins is through the foods that we eat including dairy products, fruits, leafy vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. Individuals who don't eat one or more of these food groups may be deficient in these vitamins and should consider taking vitamin supplements that are available from most health stores.
Keep in mind that vitamins cannot replace treatment for high blood pressure from a licensed physician. Check with your doctor before taking vitamins for any health condition to get the proper dosage and to ensure the vitamins do not interact with other medication.
Tags: blood pressure, blood vessels, high blood, blood pressure, herbal supplements