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These studies suggest that magnesium, beetroot juice, and L-arginine are effective in lowering blood pressure, while other supplements like potassium, vitamin C, and aged garlic extract show potential but require more research.
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Hypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and mortality. While lifestyle changes and medications are common treatments, natural supplements, known as nutraceuticals, have shown promise in lowering blood pressure (BP) . This article explores various supplements that have been studied for their BP-lowering effects.
Calcium and magnesium have been found to significantly reduce both systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Calcium supplementation resulted in reductions of -1.37 mm Hg in SBP and -1.63 mm Hg in DBP, while magnesium showed reductions of -2.79 mm Hg in SBP and -1.56 mm Hg in DBP . These minerals are essential for vascular health and may help in achieving optimal BP levels.
Potassium is another mineral with a notable impact on BP. Studies have shown that potassium supplementation can significantly reduce SBP by -2.10 mm Hg . Potassium helps balance sodium levels in the body, which is crucial for maintaining healthy BP.
Among the vitamins studied, Vitamin E showed a modest reduction in SBP by -1.76 mm Hg, while Vitamins C and D did not significantly affect BP. The antioxidant properties of Vitamin E may contribute to its BP-lowering effects.
A combination of polyphenols from grape seed, green tea, and resveratrol has been shown to reduce DBP by 4.4 mm Hg in hypertensive subjects. This combination works by enhancing nitric oxide production, which helps in vasodilation and BP reduction.
Cocoa flavonoids and beetroot juice are rich in antioxidants and nitrates, respectively. These compounds have been associated with significant reductions in BP. Beetroot juice, in particular, has been shown to reduce SBP by -4.4 mm Hg and DBP by -1.1 mm Hg . The nitrates in beetroot juice convert to nitric oxide, promoting vasodilation.
Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA and EPA, have been studied for their effects on BP. DHA supplementation has been found to reduce SBP by -3.4 mm Hg and DBP by -3.4 mm Hg, while EPA showed less significant effects. These fatty acids improve vascular function and reduce inflammation, contributing to lower BP.
L-Arginine, an amino acid, has been shown to significantly lower both SBP by 5.39 mm Hg and DBP by 2.66 mm Hg. It serves as a substrate for nitric oxide synthesis, which is crucial for blood vessel relaxation and BP reduction .
Coenzyme Q10 and controlled-release melatonin have also demonstrated BP-lowering effects. These supplements are known for their antioxidant properties and ability to improve endothelial function .
Ginger supplementation has been found to reduce SBP by -6.36 mm Hg and DBP by -2.12 mm Hg. The effects are more pronounced in individuals under 50 years of age and with higher doses of ginger. Ginger's anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties contribute to its BP-lowering effects.
A variety of natural supplements, including vitamins, minerals, polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, and herbal extracts, have shown potential in lowering blood pressure. While these nutraceuticals offer promising results, further research is needed to determine optimal dosages and long-term safety. Incorporating these supplements into a balanced diet may provide an additional strategy for managing hypertension.
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