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Dr. Jared Hanson ND, LAc is a doctor of naturopathic medicine and acupuncturist in New York City (Manhattan). His alternative medicine practice focuses on the holistic treatment and prevention of chronic disease. To make an appointment with Dr. Hanson at his New York location, call 917-607-5035 or email drjaredhanson@gmail.com.

Lowering Blood Pressure Naturally

If your blood pressure is too high it is incredibly important to take steps to lower it. A healthy blood pressure reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes. High blood pressure can also damage your kidneys and your eyes. Natural remedies can be very effective in lowering high blood pressure and reducing the need for medications for hypertension. Natural therapies to lower blood pressure are an important part of the natural prevention of heart disease. Natural remedies for high blood pressure may be preferable to medication in mild to moderate hypertension because they have little or no side effects.

Lifestyle change is of foremost importance in the natural treatment of high blood pressure. Losing excess body weight for those that are overweight is an important first step, as is quitting smoking. Other primary interventions in the natural treatment of hypertension are getting regular exercise and adopting a regular intentional stress reduction practice, such as meditation. In fact, taken together, these four steps, combined with a good diet, have been shown to be more effective than medications such as diuretics and beta-blocker for mild to moderate hypertension.

Some of the important dietary changes that have been shown to lower blood pressure include increasing vegetable and fruit intake, fiber, essential fatty acids, whole grains and fiber. Similarly, the diet should include foods high in calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin C. Saturated fats and refined carbohydrates such as sugar and white flour should be avoided.

If diet and lifestyle change do not reduce the blood pressure, supplements may be required. Magnesium, potassium, calcium, essential fatty acids, vitamins C and E, CoQ10 and arginine are all nutrients that have a role to play in managing blood pressure naturally. Herbs for high blood pressure include Crataegus, Allium (garlic) and Tilia.

Remember, high blood pressure cannot be ignored. It may be necessary to go on medication first while simultaneously treating high blood pressure naturally. As a healthy diet and lifestyle combined with the right nutrients begin to lower blood pressure naturally, it becomes possible to taper off medication that is no longer necessary.