Hypertension

A Silent Stalker

High blood pressure affects approximately 25% of the American population. It is a medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is chronically elevated. Blood pressure needs to be kept under control or it can lead to serious health problems, among them stroke, heart attack and kidney disease. Hypertension can be caused by genetics or lifestyle, such as:

• Smoking
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Too much salt consumption
• Stress
• Increase in age

Signs of Hypertension

Hypertension often has no obvious symptoms and thus has been described as "the silent killer." However, some symptoms of high blood pressure can include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Blurred vision

Supplements Can Help

In addition to having your blood pressure checked regularly, getting enough exercise, limiting salt intake and maintaining a healthy weight, the following supplements may offer help in controlling your blood pressure:

• Co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant that has been shown in studies to significantly reduce blood pressure.
• Research has shown that Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs), like those found in cold water fish oil, may help to control blood pressure.
  
• Garlic, in extract form, may also help to slightly lower your blood pressure.
• The minerals calcium and magnesium might also provide some blood pressure lowering support.