More than 43 million Americans have high blood pressure (hypertension), but less than one third of them have achieved targeted levels of blood pressure. Even among the 23.4 million who take antihypertensive medications, only 42.9% of these patients actually get their blood pressure down to acceptable levels. This failure to adequately treat high blood pressure could cost $1 billion in excess health costs due to stroke, heart disease, diabetes, kidney failure and other illnesses, according to the study.
Meeting of the American Society of Hypertension May 2000
Unfortunately, the authors of the study only recommend that blood pressure be treated more aggressively using standard medications. Nothing is said concerning diet, exercise, stress reduction, or any natural supplements to help reduce blood pressure. Lifestyle is very influential on blood pressure, and the first place to start is by modifying your diet as I describe in my Total Health Program. Cardiovascular exercise is also extremely important.
Also, several supplements, including vitamin C and magnesium, might be of additional benefit.
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