Vitamins that Can Help Regulate Blood Pressure

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is known as the silent killer. Even though the American Heart Association tells us that nearly 1/3 of adults in America have high blood pressure, 1/3 of those people do not even realize it. Many may not experience symptoms for a number of years. It is important to have your blood pressure checked to determine if you need to make adjustments to your diet or add supplements and specific vitamins to help keep blood pressure regulated.

Vitamin C

Four different studies performed by researchers at Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts revealed a direct connection between Vitamin C and blood pressure. The lower the amounts of Vitamin C in the diet, the greater the likelihood of having high blood pressure. Diets containing large amounts of fruits and vegetables can result in moderate reductions in blood pressure. New studies are now being conducted to determine the efficacy of adding Vitamin C supplements to the diet in order to lower blood pressure.

B Vitamins

Elevated homocysteine levels have been connected to an increase in blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Deficiencies of Vitamin B12, folate, and B6 can lead to an increase of this amino acid in the blood as metabolism is hampered. This can damage the inside of bloods vessels. Dr. Kilmer S. McCully of Harvard University presented a theory that homocysteine levels were directly related to the hardening of the arteries. Several trials have concluded that combining vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements can decrease homocysteine levels. While B6 is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid, the trials conducted revealed that supplementation with this B vitamin was not significant in lowering homocysteine levels.

Stress levels can also affect your blood pressure. Since B vitamins are known for their ability to reduce stress-related symptoms such as anxiety and irritability, which can adversely affect blood pressure, taking a B-complex supplement may be beneficial in maintaining healthy blood pressure.

Other Helpful Vitamins

Vitamin A may inhibit the formation of plaque inside the arterial walls that can increase blood pressure. Deficiencies of Vitamin D can be linked to hypertension. Supplementing with Vitamin D, especially for pre-menopausal women, may decrease the risk factors for high blood pressure. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that is highly regarded for its ability to protect the arteries, resulting in a decreased risk for hypertension. This vitamin can also reduce plaque formation by inhibiting the oxidation of LDL cholesterol.

Multivitamin Supplements

Taking a multivitamin may help keep blood pressure regulated. Look for a multivitamin that combines the necessary nutrients with minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which can lower blood pressure.