Health concerns such as high blood pressure, or hypertension, can result from a lack of specific nutrients, enzymes or trace elements in the body. In these instances, dietary supplements in the form of specific foods, herbs, drinks or even the necessary element itself can be taken to make up for any deficiency. Several substances have demonstrated promise as blood pressure supplements, including omega-3 fish oil, co-enzyme Q10, Hawthorn extract and magnesium.
The most common culprit behind hypertension is that of constricted blood vessels or vascular blockages. This can be the result of plaque that has built up in the veins and arteries or the result of the kidneys’ attempt to compensate for restricted blood flow. Most blood pressure supplements address one or both of these issues.
Perhaps the most popular of the available blood pressure supplements, and one often recommended by doctors, is omega-3 fish oil. It was discovered in the 1970s that native Inuit in Greenland, whose diet consisted primarily of seafood, demonstrated very little cardiovascular disease. It was later discovered that polyunsaturated fats that occur in the omega position on the carbon chain actually possess anti-inflammatory properties. Other foods with a high quantity of omega-3 fats include flaxseed, walnuts and raw tofu.
Another of the valuable blood pressure supplements is coenzyme Q10. This is a quinone that is part of the basic respiratory chain and is responsible for making adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is a fundamental building component of protein and assists in muscle contraction. CoQ10 also functions as an antioxidant, which means that it bonds with free radical molecules, rendering them ineffective in causing damage. The highest concentration of CoQ10 is found in myocardial, or heart, tissue.
Like CoQ10, Hawthorn extract has been found to have powerful antioxidant properties. Hawthorn is a member of the rose family that grows naturally throughout the world. It has bee02.n used for medicinal purposes since the first century. It is thought that the leaves and red or black berries contain flavonoids that help in the vasodilation of blood vessels.
Taurine is a sulfonic acid that is produced naturally in mammals, but it also is synthesized in commercial production. It has been found to have numerous health applications, one of which is as a blood pressure supplement. Taurine is added to both baby formula and energy drinks, because of the wide range of applications it appears to have regarding signal processing and regulatory properties.
Forskolin is a product derived from the Indian coleus plant and functions as a vasodilator. Forskolin has also been shown to induce weight loss and increase lean mass and testosterone levels. It is often used to increase cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in cell composition. It is responsible for essential cellular respiration and transmission.
Magnesium is a trace element known to improve cardiovascular function and energy levels. Taurine has been shown to assist in maintaining proper magnesium levels in the blood, as well. Many foods contain magnesium, which can also be purchased in supplemental form.
Many other foods and supplements that have been shown to increase blood flow, dilate vessels, and increase energy and brain function would also function as blood pressure supplements. Green, leafy vegetables, berries that are high in flavonoids, nuts and legumes, and fish that is rich in omega-3 fats all provide nutrition for a healthy cardiovascular system. Benefits aside, one should seek out professional medical advice before undertaking any type of supplemental regimen.
