Fighting High Blood Pressure Naturally

The American Heart Association says that one in every three adults in the United States lives with high blood pressure. High blood pressure is also known as Hypertension. Most individuals do not experience any noticeable symptoms of high blood pressure in the early stages. Eventually, individuals may experience dizziness or dizzy spells, headaches and nosebleeds. There are no causes which have been identified or associated with high blood pressure at this point in time, however, some causes may include weight gain, low physical activity level, tobacco use, high salt intake, potassium intake, high stress levels and alcohol intake. Age and family history may also put certain individuals at a higher risk for developing high blood pressure.

Introducing a fair amount of garlic into the diet may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Some studies show that onions may be beneficial too. Some studies show that garlic may help reduce recurring instances of the flu. Garlic can be taken by supplement or can be introduced into the diet naturally. Garlic should not be used as a substitute for prescription medication, however, it may be able to help. Garlic can also be used in food to reduce the need for salt. It's flavorful component makes for a very tasty ingredient.

According to the Mayo Clinic, omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil and alpha-linolenic acid may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol naturally. Evidence of this has been tested in both humans and animals, however, the safety and effectiveness has not yet been tested. The recommended dosage of fish oil is 1000 milligrams a day.

The Mayo Clinic also recommends the DASH Diet for lowering blood pressure. Sodium is the basis for the DASH Diet. On the standard DASH Diet, individuals can consume up to 2300 milligrams of sodium per day, but on the lower sodium DASH Diet, individuals can only consume 2500 milligrams of sodium per day. 6 to 8 servings of grains, 4 to 5 servings of vegetables, 4 to 5 servings of fruits, 2 to 3 servings of dairy, 6 servings or less of lean meats, poultry and fish, and 2 to 3 servings of fats and oils are allowed per day on the DASH Diet. Check out the Mayo Clinic site (DASH diet: Healthy eating to lower your blood pressure) for more information about the DASH Diet.

Yoga and other low-stress physical activity may also be beneficial in reducing high blood pressure. Stress is a major component of raised blood pressure in some cases, so meditation, yoga and other calming activities may be helpful.