There are many excellent drug therapies for hypertension as prescribed by medical doctors but natural treatment for hypertension can be just as effect and easier to swallow.
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is an out of control problem among Americans. Especially if you're overweight, out of shape, drink too much, smoke too much, ingest too much sodium, are over 40 and lastly, if you have a family history of hypertension.
You may read those risk factors and think, hmmm, who's left that's NOT at risk for high blood pressure! That's why it's such a huge problem. One in three Americans, which is 33% of our population, is at risk.
Not sure if you have hypertension? Visit your local drugstore. Many pharmacies have a self-serve blood pressure gauge which you can use at no charge. Normal blood pressure is 120/80. Any numbers that are way off from this should send you scrambling to the doctor's office.
Headaches, nosebleeds and dizziness are other symptoms.
There are many obvious things you can do if you are not a big fan of drugs or don't want to pay for prescription drugs. Changing your diet and exercise are the first things that come to mind. Eat whole, natural foods. If you have to open a package, chances are that processed, preprepared food is not good. Read labels and watch your sodium intake. Get off the couch and walk your dog, who might also be overweight if you really look at him.
Reduce your stress levels. Exercise is the primary way to let off steam, but you may want to find new ways to relax, such as meditation, yoga and hypnosis. Don't poo-poo hypnosis! The mind/body connection is pretty dynamic!
In addition to those major changes, there are a variety of supplements from health food stores that may contribute to the reduction of hypertension. These supplements, which all come in pill or capsule form from the health food store, include:
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Good for people also afflicted with diabetes.
Garlic: Not to be taken in large amounts as it may thin your blood.
Hawthorn: a supplement frequently recommended by herbal practitioners with no known drug interactions.
Fish oil: Cod liver oil only in a capsule so you can't taste it! Full of healthy fats which act as kindling to assist in burning or eliminating the bad fat.
Folic acid: A good supplement for smokers with hypertension.
Calcium, magnesium and potassium: Essential minerals still under study
This information is intended as food for thought about your health, your heart and how high blood pressure may be affecting your quality of life. It is not meant to serve as a diagnosis, nor should you start taking any of these aforementioned supplements without speaking to your personal health care provider.
No comments:
Post a Comment