Did you know that 1 in 3 American adults are likely to live their life not knowing that they have high blood pressure [1]? It’s no wonder the health condition is widely referred to as the “silent killer,” especially seeing how its associated symptoms are easily disguisable. The unfortunate consequence of such trickery is that the threat imposed on the heart can become a matter of life or death despite its lack of warning signs.
The good news is that hypertension (a common term used to refer to blood pressure) is both treatable and preventable. Often, lifestyle changes make most of the difference. Still, those who take extra measures such as including dietary supplements, visiting their doctors regularly, and taking part in physical activities, among others, are the ones to reap the benefits of wellness. Our editorial team decided to help facilitate this heart-promoting journey for everyone by narrowing down supplements available in the present market.
Based on our ranking criteria and, to some extent, products in popular demand, we gathered details on not one, but 12 blood pressure supplements and four guides trusted to bring blood pressure levels within normal ranges. Want to see how these solutions compare amongst each other? Well, look no further; here’s a thorough analysis of each one.
The Front Runners of the Blood Pressure Support Market
As briefly mentioned earlier, we have a total of 16 solutions that can be easily implemented into one’s daily life. In no particular order, they are:
Alistrol
- Company: CLE Holistic Health
- Starting Price: $69.95
Alistrol is a fulvic-infused blood pressure support believed to reduce high blood pressure, promote a younger, healthier, and stronger heart, strengthen arteries, and reduce the risk of heart-related implications. The main convincing facts about this supplement is the accompanying clinical study. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 20 participants (between 30 and 70 years old and hypertension of no more than 159/99) either had to take Alistrol or placebo capsules three times daily and were monitored at the 0-, 2-, 4- and 6-week marks. While results weren’t as evident in the first week, the sixth week reported a significant difference.
Another interesting facet is the company, CLE Holistic Health itself. As per the claims made, they are deemed a leader in the Canadian Natural Health Industry, with all their products have received approval from Health Canada “for legality, safety, quality, and effectiveness.” This is a significant competitive advantage seeing that Health Canada is a governmental organization just like the FDA. Taking everything into account, we must reveal the ingredients, right? Well, they have been combined into a 3000mg proprietary blend consisting of Holly Leaf Extract Blend, Hawthorn Fruit Extract, Daikon Seed Extract, Garlic Extract, and Fulvic Extract.
BPS-5
- Company: Golden After 50
- Starting Price: $69
BPS-5 is advertised as an “advanced blood pressure support formula” that delivers the power of five natural ingredients sufficient for a healthier functioning heart. Also dubbed as the “hypertension healers,” the Golden After 50 team affirms that when taken consistently, improvements can be experienced in terms of blood vessels health, healthy blood pressure ranges, the severity of symptoms caused by heart failure, blood circulation, and relaxation. We were initially introduced to this brand because of the level of interest expressed by existing customers. As a team, Golden After 50 aims to contribute to the wellness of men and women during their golden years, and to do so, they focus on the combined effects of science and natural compounds.
That said, we certainly wouldn’t call this an advanced formula seeing that Alistrol carries 3000mg per serving whereas BPS-5 only has 800mg. However, the selected ingredients appear to be expected in most blood pressure support systems, i.e., Magnesium (100mg), Nattokinase (50mg), Hawthorn Berry (300mg), Grape Seed Extract (150mg), and Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (200mg). In addition, the formula is straightforward and doesn’t appear to allow for any fillers, which is usually more desirable than an extended list of ingredients delivered at lower concentrations.
The Omega
- Company: Cymbiotika
- Starting Price: $72
As suggested in the name of this product, The Omega is believed to contain the highest quality vegan Omega-3 DHA/EPA. The reason for using this approach supposedly rests in the indisputable evidence that exists on ingesting omega-3 fatty acids, which have long been known to support brain, vision, heart, and lung health. Furthermore, omega-3 is usually associated with fertility, pregnancy, child development, and neuroprotection. Seeing how blood pressure is an indicator of heart health, it only makes sense to start with the heart, and this is what the Cymbiotika team has stuck by.
Speaking of the team, they’ve gone above and beyond to promote transparency and ensure that consumers are confident in what they will be purchasing. To put things into context, the certificate of analysis has been posted, and this document summaries the contents of The Omega and purity analysis. This level of testing is rarely offered to the public and hence, remains a significant factor in keeping The Omega on our list. Who can forget how they managed to create a formula completely free of animal products? Regarding serving size (i.e., 14 pumps), it encompasses the likes of Canadian Omega-3 DHA (400mg), EPA (10mg), Organic Evening Primrose Oil (100mg), Organic Sea buckthorn Oil (100mg), Icelandic Astaxanthin (4mg) and Phosphatidylcholine (10mg).
Blood Balance
- Company: Guardian Botanicals
- Starting Price: $59
Another brand that seems to have attracted much media demand is Guardian Botanicals, namely, their “Blood Balance” formula. According to the sales page, Blood Balance not only has the potential to regulate blood pressure, but it can also go as far as balancing blood sugar levels, lowering bad cholesterol (and increasing the good type), and reversing insulin resistance, say the least. Our editorial team is presently on the fence with this one, as neither has any company background provided nor is the supplement’s fact available.
For now, we can assume that this formula contains White Mulberry, Juniper Berry, Biotin, Chromium, Cinnamon Bark Powder, Berberine Extract, and Bitter Melon, but are the concentrations enough to elicit improvements? Does this supplement have enough substance to defend the listed price? These are questions that need to be directed towards customer service before placing an order. We by no means want to reduce Guardian Botanicals’ Blood Balance. Still, when even the basic information has not been disclosed, its legitimacy will undoubtedly be questioned at some point.
Blood Pressure Optimizer
- Company: HFL
- Starting Price: $49.97
HFL has been operating as a health and wellness brand since 1996, with an increased online presence since 1999. Based on the claims made, HFL’s take on blood pressure support, i.e., Blood Pressure Optimizer, results from the founder, Dr. Sam Robbins’ family history of heart problems. After 17 years of research, HFL launched this formula, which is trusted to bring blood pressure levels within a normal, youthful range.
As an anti-aging and hormone specialist, nutritionist, exercise physiologist, writer, speaker, and leading health entrepreneur, Dr. Robbins understands the importance of mental and physical health and how the two need to align to prevent age-related diseases. This is one of the main reasons he started HFL, short for “Health, Fitness, and Longevity.” The Blood Pressure Optimizer encompasses scientifically researched and patented ingredients that tend to vascular function, blood vessel dilation, sodium excretion, and antioxidant protection.
How? By the looks of it, one serving is equivalent to MAGNA Max Magnesium Blend (240mg), Hawthorn Berry (900mg), MegaNatural®-BP Grape Seed Extract (300mg), Celery3nB™ (300mg), Pomegranate (200mg), L-Arginine-Alpha-Ketoglutarate (300mg), Lycopene (37mg), Potassium (300mg), Vitamin C (55mg), Calcium (5mg), Vitamin D3 (400IU) and Vitamin B6 (10mg).
HRT
- Company: Lion
- Starting Price: $69
Lion HRT is advertised as a dietary supplement that might help maintain healthy blood pressure levels while promoting optimum heart health. Unfortunately, we were unsuccessful in verifying whether Lion is, in fact, a legitimate company because the necessary information has not been provided. Moreover, the supplement’s back story has been delivered in a video format that extends well into an hour. In it, an individual named Michael Cannon is held responsible for this solution. Still, we later discovered that the latter is just a pen name used for marketing purposes to protect the author’s identity.
Additionally, the listed manufacturer’s address directed us to an “urban mail and business center,” which seems nonsensical. This, to a large extent, is disheartening, seeing that the formula may be beneficial. Precisely, each serving is said to contain Riboflavin (1.2mg), Vitamin B6 (1.7mg), Folate (800mcg), Magnesium (200mg), Potassium (200mg), Hibiscus (350mg), Garlic (200mg), Hawthorn Berry (200mg), and Rosemary (140mg). Undoubtedly, the lack of transparency neither justifies the price nor the high demand it has recently garnered.
Blood Pressure Formula
- Company: Longevity Premier Nutraceuticals
- Starting Price: $15.03
Blood Pressure Formula by Longevity Premier Nutraceuticals has allegedly been scientifically formulated and proven to support healthy blood pressure. With complete emphasis placed on natural herbs, each ingredient has been verified by a practicing herbalist, health practitioners, and published researchers. Matter-of-factly, the team affirms that their strategy represents a good balance between tradition and science. Consequently, one can anticipate improved immunity and cardiac functions, the healthy contractile function of the heart, protection from injury on the heart’s muscular tissue, enhanced release of nitric oxide, antioxidant support, strengthened heart, and improved dilatation of blood vessels.
The above results would be nothing if it weren’t for ingredients such as Chamomile Extract (80mg), Goji Berry Extract (40mg), Kudzu Root Extract (80mg), Malt Extract (80mg), Natto Processed Extract (160mg), Longevity BP-108™ (1440mg), and Radish Seed Extract (120mg). The coming together of several health and wellness experts drew us to Longevity Premier Nutraceuticals despite their minimal company background. Furthermore, this supplement is also listed on big-box stores’ websites, which is somewhat of an indicator of the company’s legitimacy.
Blood Pressure 911
- Company: PhytAge Laboratories
- Starting Price: $69.95
Blood Pressure 911 is a premium blood pressure support formula intended to lower hypertension, assist consumers in achieving healthier blood pressure levels, and is trusted to support bettered cardio health. Established in 2015, PhytAge Laboratories’ success with their digestion supplement, Internal 911, is what allowed them to shed light on the synergy existing between science and all-natural ingredients. Today, they proudly stand by 23 different supplements, ultimately addressing all possible areas of health.
Speaking of all-natural ingredients, the Blood Pressure 911 formula delivers essential nutrients that activate a particular potassium channel (KCNQ5) in blood vessels. The latter is what relaxes the blood vessels, and consequently, lowers blood pressure. On that note, each serving capable of targeting the alleged channel includes Vitamin C (60mg), Niacin (2.5mg), Vitamin B6 (5mg), Folate (100mcg), Vitamin B12 (100mcg), and a 620 mg-proprietary blend housing Hawthorne, Garlic, Olive, Hibiscus, Buchu, Juniper, and Green Tea.
StrictionBP
- Company: Optimal Health & Wellness
- Starting Price: $63.34
StrictionBP has been formulated to reduce blood pressure, lower bad cholesterol levels, balance blood sugar levels, and increase antioxidant support for a healthy heart. Senior Nutritionist at Optimal Health & Wellness, Matt, insists that people typically lack knowledge about blood pressure issues. Notably, he explained three ways to strengthen the heart: balancing blood sugar levels and lowering bad cholesterol levels. Only when the two former areas are rectified should stabilization of blood pressure be considered, and these are the founding steps to StrictionBP.
With the above in mind, consumers are likely to assume that a three-step process would imply an extensive list of ingredients, but this is far from the truth. Matter-of-factly, the team at Optimal Health & Wellness considered three simple ingredients: Vitamin B6 (5mg), Magnesium (32mg), and Ceylon Cinnamon (1000mg). Finally, a facet unique to this brand is that each supplement is accompanied by a free eBook called “3 New Ways to Naturally Lower Blood Pressure.” This shows that supplements alone do not suffice, and specific tweaks will need to be made to elevate results.
Total Blood Support
- Company: Applied Science (AS) Nutrition
- Starting Price: $79
Total Blood Support is an all-natural supplement intended to optimize the endothelium function. The body’s natural blood pressure support system is for those who aren’t aware of this function. More precisely, inside every blood vessel, an endothelium layer exists that determines the rate at which our vessels expand and contract. People with high blood pressure experience vessels with too much blood rushing through them, eventually blocking the arteries.
With Total Blood Support, the latter consequence is avoided while keeping blood vessel function in check. How exactly has this been accomplished? Well, seeing that the team at AS Nutrition values all-natural, excellent products that work alongside the body, it doesn’t surprise us that the likes of Vitamin C (60mg), Niacin (2.5mg), Vitamin B6 (5mg), Folate (100mcg), Vitamin B13 (100mcg), and a 620 mg-proprietary blend of Hawthorn, Garlic, Olive, Hibiscus, Buchu, Uva Ursi, Juniper, and Green Tea were hand-picked.
Blood Pressure Support
- Company: VitaPost
- Starting Price: $33.95
Blood Pressure Support by VitaPost is yet another supplement devoted to bringing blood pressure levels within normal ranges. Interestingly, the team appears to have approached this issue the same way the team at AS Nutrition did (i.e., the ingredients are nearly identical). Based on the descriptions provided, their take not only supports blood pressure levels but can support heart health, cardiovascular health and induce healthy blood flow, among others. Very little is currently available on VitaPost itself, but once again, they are present across several big box stores, which gives us something to feel comfortable about.
All things considered, each serving is said to house Vitamin C (60mg), Niacin (2.5mg), Vitamin B6 (5mg), Folate (170mcg), Vitamin B12 (100mcg), Garlic (150mg), Hibiscus (100mg), Olive (125mg), Hawthorn (175mg), Buchu Leaf (25mg), Uva Ursi Leaf (15mg), Juniper Berry (15mg), and Green Tea (15mg). At this point, one is likely to wonder why anyone would invest $79 in something that’s easily accessible at $33.95. Believe it or not, we were wondering the same thing!
BP Zone
- Company: Zenith Labs
- Starting Price: $59
The last of the supplements is brought to us by Zenith Labs. Dubbed “BP Zone,” this doctor-formulated solution can increase new levels of energy, combat faulty genes that may be causing blood pressure levels to rise, and promote a healthy heart and cardiovascular function. This brand is a fan favorite because 1) the formulas are simple and 2) the formulator and Chief Medical Officer of Zenith Labs, Dr. Ryan Shelton, NMD, have been involved in overall two decades of clinical research to educate physicians and patients on the most productive diagnostic and treatment mean in medicine. If this doesn’t scream confidence, we genuinely don’t know what will. In discussing the ingredients, those that made it to the BP Zone formula include Saffron (60mg), Hibiscus (250mg), CoQ10 (30mg), Garlic (300mg), Mag cit (250mg), and Black Seed (100mg).
And that wraps up our top contenders for blood pressure supplements. It should be evident that many providers have a lot in common, especially when considering their strategies. At the same time, it dawned on us that not all products popular in demand are beneficial. Sure, one’s initial reaction might entail excitement. Still, as such products undergo thorough analysis, it becomes evident that they lack clarity and substance, which only gives rise to confusion, and mistrust. Nevertheless, we would like to introduce guides that generally advise lifestyle changes that promote healthy blood pressure, and ultimately, a properly functioning heart. So far, we were able to gather four resources, including:
The High Blood Pressure Solution Kit
- Company: Barton Publishing
- Starting Price: $19.97
Developed by Barton Publishing’s Medical & Nutrition Advisor, Dr. Scott Saunders, MD, The High Blood Pressure Solution Kit is an entirely all-natural solution to high blood pressure. In it, individuals will come to learn of the natural alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs, actionable steps, some of today’s best natural remedies (from herbs to foods), and stress-relief techniques. This system will reveal things that will and won’t help drop blood pressure levels within normal ranges to simplify things. Once purchased, the suggested information will be delivered via five reports called:
- High Blood Pressure: Resource Guide
- The Barton 3-Phase Blood Pressure Remedy Plan
- Heart Healthy Cookbook: Recipes for Life
- Meal Plan & Grocery List: For Lowering Blood Pressure
- Blood Pressure Workbook: Step-By-Step Outline and Journal
High Blood Pressure Program
- Company: Blue Heron Health News
- Starting Price: $49
Compiled by Blue Heron Health News’ Founder, Christian Goodman, The High Blood Pressure Program reflects the power activating our mind-body connections can have on healthy blood pressure levels. The argument made by the team is that the brain controls everything, especially when it comes to managing stress and blood pressure. Hence, this program will provide step-by-step instructions on using mind-body exercises so that stressors are well under control and the heart is protected. For people who are wondering how tedious this strategy might be, it isn’t. Matter-of-factly, only three exercises need to be performed without even breaking a sweat.
The Blood Pressure Solution
- Author: Dr. Marlene Merritt
- Starting Price: $47
The Blood Pressure Solution is a comprehensive guide that targets the underlying causes of hypertension and helps to control blood pressure naturally. In it, Dr. Marlene Merritt explains why the likes of Lisinopril and Metoprolol Succinate are bad, how a simple beverage can help lower blood pressure by 12 points, a food hack that simplifies what foods should and shouldn’t be consumed, the benefits of a stress-lowering technique, five fast exercises that suffice to strengthen the heart and more. Beyond blood pressure levels, Dr. Merritt believes that her system can promote weight loss and relieve those experiencing muscle aches and joint pains. As per the expert herself, “my recommendations work synergistically to promote good health throughout your body. In the process, the underlying problem causing your hypertension is vanquished!” On that note, each purchase will also include the following bonuses:
- Bonus #1: 7-Day Meal Plan: 21 Recipes That Lower Blood Pressure
- Bonus #2: Cheat Sheet: Guidelines for Healthy Eating
- Bonus #3: 99 Foods That Naturally Lower Blood Pressure
- Bonus #4: How to Read a Food Label
- Bonus #5: The Top 3 Killer Myths about Blood Pressure
Heart Strong 120/80 Secrets
- Company: Life Titan Research
- Starting Price: $17
Heart Strong 120/80 Secrets is a complete guide filled with scientifically validated protocols and alternative treatments for heart disease. As stated on the sales page, the means recommended in this system are effective and inexpensive, non-invasive, and free of side effects. As a team, Life Titan Research actively educates consumers on healthy alternatives to dependency-creating drugs. That said, they neither assume the responsibility of health professionals nor insist that their suggestions are cures. Instead, a system like Heart Strong 120/80 Secrets should be perceived as a lifestyle-enhancing protocol, which might elevate wellness all around. At the time of writing, we do not know the researchers’ credentials at Life Titan Research. Hence, this is something that should be brought to customer service’s attention.
Where Our Front Runners Fall in Our Ranking Criteria
Before arriving at our top picks, we had to take some time to reflect on factors likely to direct us towards effective solutions. These were then used to evaluate existing products in the market. The more boxes they ticked off, the more likely a product made the cut. Those in popular demand were also considered to simply show that not all are as effective as they are made out to be. Some of them made our list solely because supplies were limited at some point. After further analysis, it was clear that popularity on its own is meaningless, the same way price alone tells us nothing. Taking everything into account, here are our ranking criteria:
Company Background & Transparency
Company background gives consumers a sense of how a supplement and/or guide took shape. In addition, it is always nice to know what processes companies followed and how their solutions compared to the entire market. This background information also indicates how much a company stands by its solutions and steps to ensure consumer confidence and build trust relationships. In general, purchasing supplements online requires complete transparency. Suppose by the end; individuals are left with far too many unanswered questions. In that case, this suggests an insufficient level of transparency, and therefore, should either be ignored, or customer support’s help should be sought.
Ingredients and Concentration
Undoubtedly, the listed products include all-natural ingredients. Consumers need to understand that not every herb, plant, vitamin, and/or mineral available tend to blood pressure levels. Therefore, companies should provide a couple of sentences on how each ingredient promotes healthy blood pressure levels. For safety purposes, individuals will have to conduct their own research to see whether the selected ingredient is supported by traditional uses or science. Ideally, a good balance between the two is the way to go. As for concentration, the listed amounts need to be effective. In some cases, the prices may be easily over $69, but the concentrations are far from potent. This should not be overlooked, as concentration suggests efficacy and length of use for full effects.
Doctor-Formulated and Scientific Backing
If a supplement was advertised as “doctor-formulated,” our editorial team was generally satisfied as long as the expert responsible is revealed and credentials can be verified. There have been instances where a supposed doctor was listed as the formulator, but there was no way of confirming it. The latter case is typical among scam products, which is another thing that consumers will need to be watchful of. As for scientific backing, we aimed for two things: 1) as listed above, ingredients with scientific evidence are most desirable, and 2) companies that took a step further to conduct clinical studies on their solutions. The second factor is not very common, but the effort should be applauded because it reflects company confidence and thus induces consumer confidence!
Advertised Benefits
There is a fine line when it comes to how companies advertise their products and their alleged benefits. Anything too good to be true should be avoided altogether. Individuals need to be mindful about supplements; they are nothing but extra measures that help drive results. By no means are any of the listed supplements a cure to severe disease or serve as a viable treatment that replaces prescription drugs altogether. Most importantly, people with existing medical conditions must consult their respective health professionals before implementing any new supplements or lifestyle changes.
Uniqueness
Uniqueness is an extensive factor that most companies are unlikely to meet. Our goal here was to see whether something helped a brand and their respective solution stand out. For instance, supplements that come with educational resources are unique because this represents efforts taken by the team to help promote wellness. Similarly, companies that make their certificates of analysis available to the public when it is not even required are considered unique by our definition. In cases where two companies have identical formulas, this factor can help (to some extent) to differentiate them.
Money-Back Guarantees & Price
Finally, we have money-back guarantees and price as factors. The first is essential, seeing that not all supplements are one-size-fits-all. It could be the case that people with slightly high blood pressure levels require less time to lower them to normal ranges, while people with extreme levels either need more time or something more substantial. So, knowing that a product can be tried, risk-free gives consumers hope and a chance to request a refund on all unopened bottles.
Regarding prices, we wanted to ensure that a wide range suitable for different financial situations is accessible. Reasonably priced educational resources can be considered for people who prefer to make lifestyle changes over ingesting capsules. Mind you, that price alone never provides a complete picture and should be the last deciding factor on the list.
The Scientific Narrative: Do Natural Ingredients Help?
Several ingredients have been listed across all 12 supplements introduced above. As much as we’d love to take care of the scientific side of things for all, it seems most sensical to summarize the scientific narrative on the top five frequently appearing ingredients. We hope that this way of processing information is thoroughly followed by everyone when their time to seek solutions arrives. Without any further delay, here’s what our editorial team was able to gather on the science of all-natural ingredients and blood pressure levels:
Hawthorn Berry
Hawthorn is a plant whose leaves, berries, and flowers are often combined for their medicinal properties. According to one source, this respective berry has been front and center for treating heart disease since the 1st century. By the early 1800s, American doctors were using it to treat circulatory disorders and respiratory illnesses. The reason for including this respective berry rests in the mere fact that it contains antioxidants, including oligomeric procyanidins and quercetin. The latter components are fundamental for fighting off free radicals known to tamper with DNA. When proper care isn’t sought, the damages can lead to cellular death [2].
One study that looked closely into the relationship between hawthorn extract dose and artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) noted that no such evidence was found. However, it was pinpointed that “if hawthorn has a blood-pressure-lowering effect, it is likely to be mediated via a NO-independent mechanism [3].” Another source that summarized the benefits of hawthorn listed several animal studies that showed that the berries act as a vasodilator, i.e., a means of relaxing constricted blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure. As for doses, one study that involved administering 1,200mg of hawthorn reported the greatest of improvements in blood pressure [4].
Garlic Extract
People who only associate garlic with meals contain prebiotic and anti-inflammatory properties essential for wellness. One systematic review investigating the effects of garlic on blood pressure confirmed that garlic supplements lowered systolic blood pressure by an average of 8.3mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 5.5mmHg. In addition, a 16 to 40% reduction in the risk of suffering from cardiovascular events was also reported [5].
Additionally, one trial that assessed the effect of aged garlic extract on central blood pressure and arterial stiffness concluded that the aged version effectively reduced peripheral and central blood pressure in a large proportion of patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Moreover, the researchers noted that consumers with elevated pressure levels might experience improved arterial stiffness, inflammation, and other cardiovascular markers [6].
Vitamin B12
Regarding vitamin B12 on blood pressure, there are two primary effects to consider on one source. First, vitamin B12 is thought to leave homocysteine (instead of converting it into SAMe), and second, it impacts the endocrine system. The author explains that homocysteine is an amino acid necessary within the biochemical pathways responsible for creating amino acids. However, when found in excess (which supposedly implies a vitamin B12 deficiency), it can rise to varicose veins, sclerotic arteries, and heart failure. Hence, increasing vitamin B12 might help to suppress homocysteine from surpassing ideal levels.
Second, we have the endocrine system, which is allegedly sensitive to vitamin B12. From what’s been shared, the entire endocrine gland is likely to experience damage without a good source of vitamin B12. Furthermore, factors including adrenaline, thyroxine, and cortisol levels may rise, resulting in high blood pressure and many heart-related diseases. Ultimately, a vitamin B12 deficiency can either induce high blood pressure or shallow blood pressure. Including this vitamin can help to heal the endocrine system; however, time is needed for a complete transformation, so to speak [7].
Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Malvaceae family. It has been traditionally incorporated in an array of natural medicines, primarily to lower blood pressure. One study investigating the antihypertensive effect of hibiscus on patients with stage one hypertension reported no significant difference in age and body mass index between the control and placebo groups. Yet, they did find a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure to a more considerable extent. This allowed the team to conclude that “using H. sabdariffa as sour tea two times a day can effectively manage blood pressure in stage one hypertension along with lifestyle and dietary modification [8].”
Magnesium
Magnesium is a type of mineral that oversees numerous enzymatic reactions in the body. At large, it regulates our muscular and nerve functions, blood sugar levels, blood pressure levels and contributes to protein, bone, and DNA synthesis [9]. Speaking of blood pressure, one meta-analysis that looked to quantify the effect of oral magnesium supplementation concluded a causal impact of magnesium on lowering blood pressure in adults [10]. More research on this needs to be conducted to be sure of its effects. At present, a proper study that considers gender, age range, dosage, and time is lacking, making it difficult to generalize the results to the more significant population.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Q: What is blood pressure, and why is it important?
A: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines “blood pressure” as the pressure of blood pushing against our artery walls. Arteries are what carry blood from our heart to the rest of our cells and organs. This measure is reflective of our heart health, blood flow, and blood vessel function, among others. Most of all, it indicates whether consumers are at risk of developing heart-related diseases [11].
Q: What are the five stages of blood pressure?
A: The five blood pressure stages recognized by the American Heart Association are Normal (120/80mm Hg), Elevated (120-129/ less than 80mm Hg), Hypertension Stage 1 (130-139/80-89mm Hg), Hypertension Stage 2 (140/90mm Hg) and Hypertensive Crisis (180/120mm Hg) [12].
Q: What does “mm Hg” stand for?
A: Mm Hg stands for millimeters of mercury. Mercury was first used in pressure gauges for accuracy and remains a go-to in medicine today [12].
Q: What is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressures?
A: Blood pressure readings depict two numbers. The first number is systolic blood pressure, which measures the pressure in our arteries with every heartbeat. The second number is called diastolic blood pressure, which measures the pressure in our arteries when the heart rests between beats. So, a reading of 120/80mm Hg reads 120 systolic and 80 diastolic [11].
Q: Which blood pressure number is more important? Systolic or diastolic?
A: More attention is given to systolic blood pressure because it indicates a risk factor for cardiovascular disease among people over 50. As explained by heart.org, this number tends to rise with age because of the stiffening of large arteries and the long-term buildup of plaque. That said, in cases of either elevated systolic or diastolic blood pressure readings, both are warning signs that need to be brought to a health professional’s attention [12].
Q: What causes high blood pressure?
A: High blood pressure is something that develops over time. Factors including unhealthy lifestyle choices (i.e., lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, poor diets, etc.) and specific health conditions (i.e., diabetes, obesity, genetics, sleep apnea, etc.) can lead to high blood pressure [11].
Q: What health implications tend to rise because of hypertension?
A: The damages are likely to vary from person to person, but generally speaking, hypertension can negatively impact the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes. That said, some health implications to watch out for include chest pain, heart attack, heart failure, stroke, brain problems, and chronic kidney disease [11].
Q: What is normal blood pressure by age?
A: For ages 21 to 25 years, normal blood pressure is 120.5/78.5 mm Hg. For ages 26 and 30 years, normal pressure is 119.5/76.5 mm Hg, for ages 31 to 35 years, normal pressure is 114.5/75.5 mm Hg, for ages 36 to 40 years, normal blood pressure is 120.5/75.5 mm Hg, for ages 41 to 45 years, normal blood pressure is 115.5/78.5 mm Hg, etc. For a complete breakdown by age and gender, visit here [13].
Q: Does stress affect blood pressure levels?
A: Based on a piece compiled by the Mayo Clinic, our stress reaction might affect blood pressure. When the body is in a stressed state, it tends to increase the presence of different hormones. This causes the heart to beat faster, the blood vessels constrict, and the blood pressure levels go up [14].
Q: How do I know if I have high blood pressure?
A: The only way to know whether you have high blood pressure is by visiting a doctor or any other health professional and getting it measured. This is usually recommended as it allows one to discuss the next steps toward betterment, i.e., possible treatment options and lifestyle changes that need to be implemented as soon as possible.
Q: What are some natural ways of reversing hypertension?
A: The CDC recommends getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week, quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, limiting sodium and alcohol intake, maintaining weight within healthy ranges, and learning to cope with stress [11] effectively.
Q: Who should take blood pressure supplements?
A: Some people who might benefit from taking blood pressure supplements include people with hypertension, cardiovascular conditions, family history of heart disease, in need of losing weight, and people who want additional support in improving blood flow.
Q: Are blood pressure supplements safe?
A: Blood pressure supplements are perceived as safe because of all-natural ingredients and relatively low concentrations per serving. It is rare for doctors to recommend such supplements because the science on most of the listed ingredients is lacking. If there is evidence, the sample sizes are usually too small to generalize about the entire population.
Q: When should a doctor’s opinion on blood pressure be sought for?
A: When blood pressure levels start to near Hypertension Stage 1, individuals should immediately seek a doctor’s help. The sooner such levels are addressed, the easier it becomes to bring them back to normal ranges.
Q: Are there any drugs likely to cause high blood pressure?
A: Chemical substances and medicines likely to cause blood pressure levels to rise to include acetaminophen, alcohol, amphetamines, ecstasy, and black licorice, among others. To see a complete list of related factors, visit MedlinePlus by clicking here [15].
The Front Runners of the Blood Pressure Support Market Final Verdict
Ultimately, it should be clear that blood pressure plays a significant role in helping consumers prevent health implications all around. The first best step is to consult a health professional, seeing that they usually monitor their patients’ health from time to time. Blood pressure supplements are an additional measure that people tend to take to drive different results. In no way do they qualify as alternatives to doctor-recommended treatments. At present, there are only a handful of all-natural ingredients that have been scientifically proven to lower blood pressure levels. Hence, moving forward, individuals will have to verify the claims made by the brand, the listed benefits, and most importantly, the ingredient list.
While our editorial team managed to round up 12 supplements and 4 guides, not all of them are as perfect as one would desire. For the most part, they carry a lot of value. However, those listed based on popularity need further investigation due to the lack of transparency. We hope that we provided a general guideline on how supplements should be selected from several and things to be watchful of so that no one falls into the traps set up by scammers. Until the next update, we encourage everyone to schedule an appointment to get their regular checkups done and verify where they fall in the five stages of blood pressure.
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