High blood pressure can lead to potentially fatal medical events but it can be managed with some natural lifestyle changes and supplements
High blood pressure can silently increase the risk of life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks and strokes. It is estimated that one in three individuals in the UK have high blood pressure, but since the condition often lacks noticeable symptoms, it may go undetected until it leads to more severe complications.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial to staying on top of the condition. In addition, incorporating a few natural lifestyle adjustments and supplements can help lower and maintain healthy blood pressure levels before it reaches a critical stage where medical intervention is needed.
According to nutritionist Kate Booker, Magnesium and Coenzyme Q10 can be beneficial in managing high blood pressure. Magnesium supplements, available for as low as £6.50 for a month’s supply (approximately 10p per pill), help relax blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure as she noted: “It’s often recommended for people dealing with hypertension.”
On the other hand, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) enhances heart health and blood pressure by targeting cells and supporting energy production within them. Prior research suggests this enzyme might also offer protection against chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.
If you’re not keen on adding more tablets to your daily intake, the Nutrition Geeks expert has suggested some simple and tasty dietary changes. Considering the average Brit consumes up to three cups of tea daily, swapping your regular brew for Hibiscus tea could yield impressive health benefits.
Hibiscus Tea has been shown to help reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels, and it’s even available in supplement form. The expert also advised incorporating more leafy greens like spinach and kale, as well as bananas into your diet for an additional potassium boost.
Potassium plays a vital role in managing blood pressure as it helps balance sodium levels in the body. Adding more garlic to your meals was another suggestion from Kate, although she noted its effect on lowering blood pressure is “a modest effect on lower blood pressure”.
Lastly, she recommended increasing your intake of berries and beets, which are rich in flavonoids and nitrates respectively. These compounds relax blood vessels and decrease blood flow by supplying the body with more antioxidants.
