How to Lower Blood Pressure Quickly

Who's At Risk For High Blood Pressure?

The cause of high blood pressure can't be determined in approximately 95 percent of the cases. However, researchers have found several factors that can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure. People who are over the age of 55, are of African American descent and have a family history of this condition are more likely to develop it.

The Danger of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a very serious health condition. If it's left untreated, it can lead to kidney failure, heart attack, blindness, stroke and heart attack. Health experts call high blood pressure the silent killer because many people don't know that they have it. Fortunately, high blood pressure can be treated with medication and lifestyle changes. Generally speaking, it's best to try lifestyle adjustments first because medications often come with unpleasant side effects. Below are some ways to lower blood pressure quickly and naturally:

Change Your Diet

Diet plays a very important role in lowering blood pressure. Nutritionists recommend that people get no more than 2400 mg of sodium per day. However, studies have shown that the typical American diet is much higher than that. High sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure. The intake of processed foods or foods that come from a can should be limited because they are very high in sodium. Fresh fruits and vegetables are the ideal food choices because they are low in sodium and high in potassium. Experts recommend getting 3500 mg or more of potassium every day. People should also make sure that they use herbs and other salt-free seasonings when cooking. Source:(http://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/guide/treating-hypertension-naturally?page=2)

Drink Alcohol In Moderation

Drinking three or more alcoholic beverages per day can raise the blood pressure to unhealthy levels. People who have high blood pressure should either stop drinking or reduce it to one or two drinks per day. Reducing alcohol intake can reduce the systolic (top number) by 4 points and the diastolic (bottom number)by two points. Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/blood-pressure/AN00318

Exercise

Exercising on a regular basis can help lower blood pressure quickly. It helps the blood vessels vasodilate (expand) so it's easier for blood to go through. Exercise also helps strengthen the heart so that it doesn't have to work as hard to pump blood. Experts recommend performing moderate-intensity exercises at least 30 minutes per day. Walking is one of the ideal exercises for people who have high blood pressure. Source: (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-blood-pressure/DS00100/DSECTION=lifestyle-and-home-remedies)

Lose Weight

Excess weight causes the heart to work harder. Weight loss is the natural result of eating a healthy diet and exercising. Losing weight can also lower blood pressure quickly. In fact, losing as little as five to ten pound can help reduce blood pressure. People who lose 20 pounds or more can reduce their systolic blood pressure by six points and their diastolic blood pressure by three points. Source (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-blood-pressure/DS00100/DSECTION=lifestyle-and-home-remedies)

Quit Smoking

Smoking causes the heart to work harder as well. It also causes the arteries to harden, which makes it difficult for blood to flow through. People who stop smoking can lower their blood pressure within a few days of quitting. It's also important to avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.

Manage Stress

There is a strong correlation between chronic stress and high blood pressure. Stress can overwork the heart. It can also lead to weight gain. Deep breathing exercises and meditation can promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Using Supplements To Lower Blood Pressure Quickly

Fish Oil Supplements

Fish Oil supplements are rich in a nutrient called DHA. Researchers have found that DHA can help reduce blood pressure by a few points. Fish oil has also been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Source (http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsek/a/Hypertension.htm)

Coq10 Supplements

Coq10 is a compound that is naturally found in the body. It helps produce ATP, which is the body’s chief fuel source. There has been evidence to suggest that Coq10 supplements can help drastically reduce blood pressure. The University of Western Australia did a 12 week study on 83 people who had high blood pressure. The participants were divided into two groups. One of the groups received a placebo, while the other one received 120 mg of Coq10. The results of the study were that the group that received the Coq10 had a 17.8 mg drop in systolic blood pressure. Source (http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsek/a/Hypertension.htm)

Garlic

Garlic has been used for many years to treat a variety of medical conditions. It has also been shown to lower blood pressure as well as help with the removal of toxins in the body. Garlic is most effective in people who have mild hypertension.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a home remedy that has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of illnesses. It can also help lower blood pressure immediately. Experts recommend adding two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a pint of water and drinking it once a day. Remember to search for unfiltered, organic, and unpasteurized brands when buying ACV. Source: (http://www.ehow.com/how_2071293_normalize-blood-pressure-apple-cider.html)

Vitamin C supplement

Vitamin C is a nutrient that is found in citrus fruits and some vegetables. It's an antioxidant that helps protect the arteries from free radical damage. This nutrient can easily be obtained by eating a healthy diet, but many people would benefit from taking a supplement. (http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/home-remedies-for-high-blood-pressure3.htm)

Monitor Your Blood Pressure At Home

A lot of people have a condition called white coat hypertension, which means their blood pressure goes up when they're in the doctor’s office. That's why it's beneficial to monitor one’s blood pressure at home.

When To Consult With Your Doctor

Many people know how to lower blood pressure quickly with home remedies. However, people should always consult with their doctors before taking a supplement. Some supplements may interfere with other medications. Additionally, people should also ask their doctors before they decide to stop taking their high blood pressure medication.

Some people won't respond to home remedies and will still need to take medication to lower their blood pressure. Those who experience dizziness and severe headaches should consult with a doctor immediately. Those are signs that one's blood pressure is dangerously high and medical attention is needed right away.