High Blood Pressure Supplements

There are several high blood pressure supplements that can be beneficial in maintaining healthy blood pressure. These supplements for high blood pressure may also be helpful when combined with blood pressure lowering medications.

If you are taking medications to lower your blood pressure you should discuss these supplements with your doctor.

Including garlic in your diet on a regular basis has been shown to lower high blood pressure but if you dislike eating garlic, you can still get your dose of garlic in capsule form. The dosage depends on the individual and you will probably need to experiment. You should be aware that garlic acts as a blood thinner and people who are taking medications that thin the blood should stay away from garlic.

Pomegranate supplements have been shown to reduce blood pressure. The pomegranate is a very powerful antioxidant that is also helpful in unclogging arteries, aiding in weight loss, and healing dry skin. There is a possible blood thinning action with pomegranate so, like with garlic, you should not take pomegranate supplements if you are taking blood thinning medication.

A study published in 1993 in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that Omega 3 Fish Oil had a significant effect in reducing blood pressure. Another study which was published in 1991 showed that elderly participants who took Omega 3 Fish Oil for eight weeks were successful in lowering blood pressure.

Studies have also shown that taking magnesium supplements lowers blood pressure in those with mild or moderate elevated pressure. How much magnesium depends on the individual. If you have never taken magnesium before, it is wise to begin with a low dose to see how your body reacts. After a few days increase the dose gradually. If bowel movements become too soft, lower the dosage.

Coenzyme Q10 has been shown to reduce high blood pressure by up to 10 percent after four to twelve weeks of taking it. Dosage is 60 to 100 mg twice daily. People who take statins to lower cholesterol may have a deficiency of Coenzyme Q10. Studies have shown that statins do deplete the body of this important enzyme.

Other high blood pressure supplements that are effective in reducing blood pressure are Hawthorn, Folic Acid, Calcium, and the amino acid Taurine.

Using supplements alone to try to control blood pressure is not a good idea. Supplements may help when combined with life style changes such as increased exercise, weight reduction, becoming a non-smoker, and if necessary medications prescribed by a doctor.

Because some supplements can interact with other medications in a negative way, it is very important to discuss taking them with your doctor or pharmacist. Also, it is important that you monitor your blood pressure by measuring it periodically to see if the supplement you are taking is working for you. If you find that it doesn't seem to be working after a fair length of time, try a different supplement.

Are you taking blood pressure medication? Another reason for monitoring your blood pressure when taking supplements is that if it is successful, you may need to have your medication dosage reduced. Now that would be good news!