hypertension Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Tap Into Nature’s Power to Beat a SILENT Epidemic

The AHA! Team — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 05:26:53 +0000

News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – High blood pressure or hypertension is one of the most highly diagnosed conditions in American adults. Building on the research of the late Michael J. Gonzalez, DSc, NMD, PhD, whose passing shocked the holistic medical field due to complications from knee surgery, we now know that natural approaches to blood pressure management can be remarkably effective. Dr. Gonzalez’s dedication to understanding the role of natural compounds in health, particularly in his comprehensive research on hypertension, has forever left an impact on the field of nutritional medicine and human health. According to research, approximately one-third of adults in the United States have hypertension. It’s no wonder that hypertensive drugs like ACE inhibitors or beta blockers are among the most highly prescribed medications. While there are many different types of blood pressure medications, all have some form of side effect that is traded off for the benefit of lowering high blood pressure. With that said, there are many natural solutions for blood pressure, and a comprehensive study aimed to determine the most effective ones. Why high blood pressure is a silent threat (and why natural solutions matter) High blood pressure is an epidemic in the United States and most Western countries. Coupled with type 2 diabetes, hypertension is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease in adults, and usually not diagnosed soon enough to prevent significant arterial damage. Unfortunately, high blood pressure has no obvious symptoms, even at ‘stage 2,’ and modern guidelines have set healthy blood pressure at or under 120/80, which most people exceed. High blood pressure medication falls into a handful of categories, but they all perform the same role of reducing hypertension. All high blood pressure medication has some manner of side effects: fatigue, headaches, dry cough, water retention, constipation, and more. If there were foods that you could eat that had a profound effect on blood pressure, however, most people would opt for that instead of medication. That was the goal of this study referenced above – to find simple natural compounds with an effect on blood pressure without the side effects of medication. The most effective natural solutions that support healthy blood pressure The study looked at 29 potential blood pressure-reducing supplements and foods. Here are 10 of the most promising: Magnesium Magnesium plays a role in proper sleep, mood regulation, bowel motility, and blood pressure regulation. While observational studies show promising results, it’s important to note that clinical trials have shown varying effects. Magnesium can be found in dark chocolate/cocoa, leafy greens, pumpkin seeds, and various other sources. It’s best to consult a holistic healthcare provider for the proper amount if supplementing. Soy isoflavones Organic, non-GMO soy is a protein-packed alternative that can be consumed as tofu in stir-fry vegetable dishes or added to miso soup. Multiple studies indicate that soy can help reduce blood pressure when eaten regularly. Although, we would strongly recommend that you find a brand that uses “filtered” water – as its main ingredient – due to the chemicals found in most sources of drinking water. Taurine Taurine is an amino acid created in necessary amounts within the human body and through ingesting fish and meat. Research shows it effectively reduces blood pressure, primarily by calming the sympathetic nervous system and enhancing the production of nitric oxide, which helps relax blood vessels. Potassium Potassium is crucial for proper cardiac function and blood vessel relaxation. It’s readily available in spinach, wild caught salmon, avocado, and bananas. However, if you’re already taking blood pressure medication, consult your doctor before increasing your potassium intake, as some medications can affect potassium levels. Pomegranate juice Research shows pomegranate juice can help reduce blood pressure through its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to increase nitric oxide production. Clinical trials have demonstrated meaningful reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure with regular consumption. Melatonin Beyond its role in sleep regulation, melatonin serves as a powerful antioxidant. Studies show it can help lower blood pressure, particularly in people with disrupted sleep patterns. The research suggests this effect comes from its antioxidant properties and ability to improve sleep quality. Garlic Garlic consistently proves its worth in cardiovascular health. Research shows it can help lower blood pressure by increasing nitric oxide production and reducing smooth muscle cell proliferation in blood vessels. It’s also a potent anti-inflammatory agent, contributing to its blood pressure-lowering effects. Fish oil The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, particularly from fatty cold-water fish like sardines, salmon, and anchovies, show significant benefits for blood pressure. The effect is especially pronounced in people with untreated hypertension. These polyunsaturated fatty acids reduce inflammatory compounds and improve blood vessel function. European mistletoe While less common, clinical research shows that European mistletoe extract, when taken consistently for 12 weeks, can significantly reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension. However, this should only be used under professional guidance. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) This naturally occurring compound, found in grass fed meat, wild caught fish, and nuts, has shown promising results in blood pressure management. Research indicates it reduces oxidative stress and improves nitric oxide availability. Tap into nature’s evidence-based solutions While blood pressure medications may (sometimes) be necessary for a short period of time, nature provides multiple solutions for this common problem. Many whole foods offer profound benefits for blood pressure management and other health advantages. If you can achieve similar results through dietary changes and targeted supplementation, it’s worth exploring these natural alternatives under proper medical supervision. The key is to work with healthcare providers who understand both conventional and natural approaches to create a comprehensive strategy for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Dr. Gonzalez’s research helps remind us that the most effective solutions can sometimes be found in nature when properly understood and applied. Always consult with healthcare providers before changing your blood pressure management strategy, especially if you’re currently taking medication. And, always choose organic foods (as much as possible) to avoid unwanted chemicals. Editor’s note: Discover how to naturally eliminate the threat of a heart attack or stroke, own the own the Cardiovascular Docu-Class presented by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: Restorativemedicine.com To read the original article click here.

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Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Hypertension, Cancer, & Early Death

The AHA! Team — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 05:16:23 +0000

Lance D Johnson via Natural News – Study Exposes Hidden Dangers of Modern Diet In a world where convenience trumps nutrition, a groundbreaking study exposes the deadly consequences of ultra-processed foods—linking them to skyrocketing rates of hypertension, heart disease, cancer, and premature death. Presented at the ACC Asia 2025 conference in Singapore, the research analyzed data from 8.2 million adults across four continents, revealing a disturbing trend: the more ultra-processed foods people eat, the faster their health deteriorates. Key points: A new study reveals that ultra-processed foods increase the risk of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. Every additional 100 grams consumed daily raises the risk of digestive diseases by 19.5% and all-cause mortality by 2.6%. Researchers warn of hidden additives, synthetic ingredients, and nutrient-deficient formulations in mass-produced foods. Governments and health officials urged to enforce stricter labeling and promote whole-food alternatives. The silent killers in your pantry Ultra-processed foods—those factory-made products loaded with synthetic additives, refined sugars, and industrial seed oils—are not just empty calories. They are engineered for addiction while stripping away essential nutrients. According to Dr. Xiao Liu, a cardiologist at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, these foods disrupt metabolism, gut health, and even mental well-being through: Blood lipid imbalances Gut microbiome destruction Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress Insulin resistance and obesity Common offenders include: Sugar-laden cereals (high-fructose corn syrup, artificial dyes) Packaged cookies and candy (hydrogenated oils, emulsifiers) Processed meats (sodium nitrites, MSG) Soda and energy drinks (aspartame, phosphoric acid) A dose-dependent health crisis The study found that for every 100 grams of ultra-processed food consumed daily (roughly a small bag of chips or a sugary drink), the risks climb: 14.5% higher hypertension risk 5.9% increased cardiovascular events 19.5% spike in digestive diseases 2.6% greater chance of early death Even more alarming? The GRADE assessment confirmed high-to-moderate certainty in these findings—meaning the evidence is undeniable. Where did the term “ultra-processed food” come from? The term “ultra-processed food” (UPF) was introduced by Brazilian nutrition researcher Carlos Monteiro and his team in 2009 as part of the NOVA food classification system. This system categorizes foods based on their level of processing rather than just their nutritional content. The NOVA classification divides foods into four groups: Unprocessed or minimally processed foods (e.g., fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, milk). Processed culinary ingredients (e.g., sugar, salt, butter, oils). Processed foods (e.g., canned vegetables, cheese, cured meats). Ultra-processed foods (e.g., sodas, chips, fast food, packaged snacks). Monteiro’s research highlighted how UPFs are linked to obesity and chronic diseases, leading to global awareness of their health risks. How do ultra-processed foods differ from processed foods? Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrially manufactured products containing numerous additives, artificial flavors, and minimal whole food content. Unlike processed foods—such as canned beans, cheese, smoked fish, and bread—which are altered mainly for preservation or taste and retain recognizable ingredients, UPFs (like soda, candy, instant noodles, chicken nuggets, and frozen pizza) rely on artificial colors, emulsifiers, sweeteners, and preservatives. While processed foods may still provide some nutrients despite often being high in salt, sugar, or fat, UPFs are typically calorie-dense, loaded with unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, and lack fiber and essential nutrients. The primary purpose of processed foods is to extend shelf life or enhance flavor, whereas UPFs are engineered for hyper-palatability, convenience, and long shelf life, prioritizing low cost and mass appeal over nutritional value. Why are ultra-processed foods considered addictive? Research suggests UPFs may trigger addictive-like eating behaviors due to: Hyper-palatability – High levels of sugar, fat, and salt stimulate brain reward pathways. Artificial additives – Flavor enhancers (e.g., MSG) and sweeteners (e.g., high-fructose corn syrup) may increase cravings. Rapid digestion & absorption – Refined carbs and fats cause blood sugar spikes, leading to overeating. Marketing & convenience – Easy access and aggressive advertising reinforce habitual consumption. Studies comparing UPFs to addictive substances (like nicotine) suggest they may lead to loss of control over eating, similar to substance dependence. The solution to this is simple; making America healthy again won’t come from the top down. Individuals have to decide that their life is worth living and they have to choose to eat real foods, and maybe grow some of their own! Sources include: ScienceDaily.com ACC.org ACC.org To read the original article, click here

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Spirulina Offers 6 Positive Health Effects (Researchers Feature an Amazing Blood Pressure Result)

The AHA! Team — Wed, 28 May 2025 05:32:23 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – Spirulina is often referred to as a “superfood” – a popular buzzword in the natural health and wellness world. But you might be wondering: of all the food items out there being touted as a superfood, which ones are actually legitimate? Turns out spirulina – a type of blue-green algae that grows in both salt and fresh water – is one of them. A study published in the peer-reviewed journal Hypertension revealed how spirulina offers a specific natural benefit to people living with hypertension. Additionally, a comprehensive review published in Cell and Molecular Biology highlights spirulina’s impressive nutritional profile and therapeutic potential. This blue-green algae is a rich source of complete proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, chlorophyll, and xanthophylls. Due to these attributes, spirulina has shown promise in treating various ailments, including diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and neuroinflammatory conditions. Researchers discover what spirulina can do to high blood pressure readings Sadly, an enormous amount of people live with high blood pressure (a reading of more than 140/90 mmHg). This condition is a main risk factor for two of the leading causes of death (heart disease and stroke) – so, understandably, a lot of research has been done to find the best ways to control it. Recently, a team of researchers published their study’s results, which investigated spirulina’s impact on high blood pressure. A blue-green algae, spirulina is considered a cyanobacteria; it contains nutraceutical and bioactive compounds that have been an important part of alternative and holistic medicine for centuries, dating to as early as ancient Africa and the Aztecs (clearly, our ancestors were on to something). In this study, the researchers used peptides to create a spirulina in its digested form (a simulation of what naturally happens in the human body once the substance is ingested). Then, they tested this digested supplement on arteries. Can you guess what happened to the arteries? The spirulina was able to relax the arterial walls by stimulating a process mediated by nitric oxide. The medical community already knows that nitric oxide plays an important role in managing blood pressure. The more easily blood vessel walls can relax, the less likely blood pressure is to spike. Importantly, people with high blood pressure often have a disruption in the metabolic processes mediated by nitric oxide, which normally helps relax arterial walls. The researchers even extracted and identified the specific bioactive compound of spirulina that contributed to this arterial relaxation: a peptide called SP6. As the authors put it: “SP6 interacts with an important signaling pathway known as PI3K/AKT. This interaction leads to the release of [nitric oxide] and, consequently, a drop in blood pressure.” Their findings support previous research, including a 2007 study published in the journal Lipids in Health and Disease. But wait, there’s more: Here are 5 other amazing benefits of spirulina Whether you do or don’t have high blood pressure, adding spirulina to your diet can boost your health in a wide number of ways. Lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Reduces high blood sugar. Has a powerful antioxidant effect to fight damaging free radicals and protect against diseases. Has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Offers a concentrated dose of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including amino acids, vitamin B, copper, iron, and omega-3. Gram for gram, it’s one of the most nutrient-dense foods in the world. Spirulina is usually taken in pill or powdered form. For a typical amount, aim for 1 to 3 grams daily, and you’ll be amazed at what this little superfood can do for your health. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov MedicalNewsToday.com Healthline.com AHAjournals.org NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Uncontrolled Hypertension: The Old ‘Silent Killer’ is Alive and Well

The AHA! Team — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 06:53:13 +0000

Florida Atlantic University via EurekAlert! – In the United States and worldwide, cardiovascular disease is the leading avoidable cause of premature death and disability. Primarily heart attacks and stroke, cardiovascular disease accounts for more than 900,000 annual deaths nationally and about 10 million deaths globally. Uncontrolled hypertension or high blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke and heart attacks. Prevention and management of cardiovascular disease involves therapeutic lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise and adjunctive drug therapies of proven benefit. In a commentary published in The American Journal of Medicine, researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s Schmidt College of Medicine and colleagues alert health care providers that the old “silent killer” is alive and well. “Health providers should be aware that uncontrolled hypertension is one of the most common, serious and increasing conditions in their patients,” said Stacy Rubin, M.D., senior author and an assistant professor of medicine, FAU Schmidt College of Medicine. “Health providers urgently need to control blood pressure and should be mindful that sudden cardiac death accounts for 50% of deaths from cardiovascular disease and is the first symptomatic event in about 25% of cases. Moreover, for 76% of stroke patients, the initial presenting symptom is the stroke itself.” The authors note that controlling hypertension is effective and, at least in theory, straightforward. Landmark U.S. study in the 1970s, about 50% of patients were aware of their high blood pressure Before the Hypertension Detection and Follow Up Program, a landmark study conducted in the 1970s in the U.S., only about 50% of patients were aware of their high blood pressure. Of those, only 50% were actively treated. Of that group, only 50% received effective treatment. Therefore, only one-eighth of all patients were effectively treated. Today, these figures show that 54% are aware of their high blood pressure, 40% are actively treated and 21% are actively controlled. Guidelines have been developed in many countries worldwide and all tend to emphasize the need for strict control. According to the latest guidelines from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, healthy individuals should have a systolic blood pressure of 130 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) or less, and a diastolic blood pressure of 80 mmHg or less. “With these latest definitions, hypertension affects about 45% of the U.S. adult population,” said Panagiota “Yiota” Kitsantas, Ph.D., co-author and professor and chair of the Department of Population Health and Social Medicine, FAU Schmidt College of Medicine. “Another clinical challenge is metabolic syndrome, which includes central adiposity, high triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, elevated fasting blood glucose and hypertension.” Metabolic syndrome is a chief risk factor for heart attacks and stroke in the U.S. The authors caution that metabolic syndrome is a chief risk factor for heart attacks and stroke in the U.S., which is the heaviest society in the world. “For patients with metabolic syndrome, we believe that angiotensin converting enzyme or ACE inhibitors or their more potent next generation drugs, the receptor blockers, are the first drug of choice,” said Charles H. Hennekens, M.D., Dr.PH., co-author, and corresponding author, the first Sir Richard Doll Professor of Medicine, senior academic advisor, and a professor of preventive medicine in the Department of Population Health and Social Medicine, FAU Schmidt College of Medicine. “These drugs have beneficial effects on heart attacks, stroke, and kidney disease, another major consequence of untreated hypertension.” Making positive lifestyle changes like losing weight, being more physically active, and cutting down on salt intake has been shown to be beneficial for managing blood pressure. For those whose blood pressure is above 130/80, a combination of these lifestyle changes along with medications can safely and effectively lower blood pressure. Medications are typically started for individuals whose pressure remains above 140/90 despite these lifestyle changes. The authors suggest that both health providers and patients should be aware of the variability of blood pressure from day-to-day and from morning to night. As such, effective treatment is complicated by the health provider’s need to produce an algorithm to each of their patients. In addition, the patient must take an active role in monitoring their blood pressure. For this reason, the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology recommend the Omron blood monitor, which is used to measure blood pressure levels at home. Health providers should counsel their patients to check their blood pressure each morning and night “Health providers should counsel their patients to check their blood pressure each morning and night and whether to administer a particular drug or its dose, which should be adjusted accordingly based on the average of three readings taken about five minutes apart,” said Hennekens. “While uncontrolled hypertension remains alive and well in the U.S. and worldwide, strict attention to these issues by health providers has the potential to ‘kill the old silent killer.’” Co-authors are Barry R. Davis, M.D., Ph.D., professor emeritus of biostatistics and data science, University of Texas – Houston School of Public Health; Jared Greenwald, a high school and pre-medical student; John Dunn and Alexandra Matarazzo, both second-year medical students at FAU; and Katerina Benson, a second-year pre-medical student at FAU. Hennekens served as principal investigator (PI) of the Coordinating Center for the landmark National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) funded Trials of Hypertension Prevention multicenter randomized trials for both phases I and II. Davis served as PI of the Coordinating Center for the landmark NHLBI funded Anti-Hypertensive and Lipid Lowering to Prevent Heart Attack multicenter randomized trials. – FAU – Journal The American Journal of Medicine DOI 10.1016/j.amjmed.2024.07.005 To read the original article click here.

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Fighting Inflammation with Flaxseeds

The AHA! Team — Mon, 27 May 2024 08:04:34 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory, aging-associated oxylipins can be normalized by eating ground flaxseed. I previously explored the “Potent Antihypertensive Effect of Dietary Flaxseed in Hypertensive Patients” study in my video Flaxseeds for Hypertension. That was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial where researchers disguised ground flaxseed in baked goods versus flax-free placebo muffins and saw an extraordinary drop in high blood pressure. As you can imagine, the flaxseed industry was overjoyed, praising the “impressive” findings, as was I. After all, high blood pressure is “the single largest risk factor” for death in the world. High blood pressure is “the single largest risk factor” for death in the world. Yes, we give people medications, lots and lots of medications, but most people don’t take them. Nine out of ten people take less than 80 percent of their prescribed blood pressure pills. It’s not difficult to understand why. “Patients are asked to follow an inconvenient and potentially costly regimen, which will likely have a detrimental effect on health-related quality of life, to treat a mostly asymptomatic condition that commonly does not cause problems for many years.” So, they may feel worse instead of better, due to the side effects. Then, some think the answer is to give them even more drugs to counteract the effects of the first drugs, like giving men Viagra to counteract the erectile dysfunction caused by their blood pressure pills. How about using a dietary strategy instead, especially if it can be just as effective? And, indeed, the drop in blood pressure the researchers saw in the flaxseed study “was greater than the average decrease observed with the standard dose of anti-hypertensive medications.” Flaxseeds are cheaper, too, compared to even single medications, and most patients are on multiple drugs. Plus, flaxseeds have good side effects beyond their anti-hypertensive actions. Taking tablespoons of flaxseed a day is a lot of fiber for people living off of cheeseburgers and milkshakes their whole lives, and your gut bacteria may need a little time to adjust to the new bounty. So, those who start with low-fiber diets may want to take it a little slow with the flaxseeds at first. Flaxseeds have good side effects beyond their anti-hypertensive actions Not all studies have shown significant blood pressure–lowering effects, though. There have been more than a dozen trials by now, involving more than a thousand subjects. And, yes, when you put them all together, overall, there were “significant reductions in both SBP and DBP”—systolic blood pressure (the upper number) and diastolic blood pressure (the lower number)—“following supplementation with various flaxseed products.” But none was as dramatic as what the researchers had found in that six-month trial. The longer trials tended to show better results, and some of the trials just used flaxseed oil or some kind of flaxseed extract. We think this is because the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. “Each of the components of interest within flaxseed, ALA, lignans, fiber, and peptides”—the omega-3s, the cancer-fighting lignans, all the soluble fiber, and the plant proteins, for instance—“all contribute towards BP reduction.” Okay, but how? Why? What is the mechanism? Some common blood-pressure medications like Norvasc or Procardia work in part by reducing the ability of the heart to contract or by slowing down the heart. So, might it be that’s how flaxseeds work, too? But, no. In my video Benefits of Flaxseeds for Inflammation, I profile the “Dietary Flaxseed Reduces Central Aortic Blood Pressure Without Cardiac Involvement but Through Changes in Plasma Oxylipins” study. What are oxylipins? “Oxylipins are a group of fatty acid metabolites” involved in inflammation and, as a result, have been implicated in many pro-inflammatory conditions, including aging and cardiovascular disease. “The best-characterized oxylipins about cardiovascular disease are derived from the w-6 fatty acid arachidonic acid,” a long-chain omega-6 fatty acid. These are found preformed in animal products, particularly chicken and eggs, and can be made inside the body from junky oils rich in omega-6, such as cottonseed oil, as noted below and at 3:49 in my video. But, as this study is titled, “Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory oxylipins in older subjects are normalized by flaxseed consumption.” That’s how we think flaxseed consumption reduces blood pressure in patients with hypertension: by inhibiting the enzyme that makes these pro-inflammatory oxylipins. I’ll spare you from acronym overload, but eating flaxseeds inhibits the activity of the enzyme that makes these pro-inflammatory oxylipins, called leukotoxin diols, which in turn may lower blood pressure. “Identifying the biological mechanism adds confidence to the antihypertensive actions of dietary flaxseed,” but that’s not all oxylipins do. Oxylipins may also play a role in the aging process. As we get older, we’re more likely to be stricken with inflammatory conditions like arthritis. However, we may be able to “beneficially disrupt these biological changes associated with inflammation and aging” with a nutritional intervention like flaxseed. Older adults around age 50 have higher levels of this arachidonic acid–derived oxylipin compared to younger adults around age 20, as you can see in the graph below and at 4:56 in my video. “These elevated concentrations of pro-inflammatory oxylipins in the older age group…may…explain the higher levels of inflammation in older versus younger individuals.” As we get older, we’re more likely to be stricken with inflammatory conditions like arthritis. So, this “elevation of pro-inflammatory oxylipins…may predispose individuals to chronic disease conditions.” What if you took those older adults and gave them muffins, like the ones with ground flaxseed? That’s just what a group of researchers did. Four weeks later, the subjects’ levels dropped down to like 20-year-olds’ levels, as seen in the graph below and at 5:32 in my video, “demonstrating that a potential therapeutic strategy to correct the deleterious pro-inflammatory oxylipin profile is via a dietary supplementation with flaxseed.” What about flax and cancer? See the related posts below. I also have a video on diabetes: Flaxseeds vs. Diabetes. If you’re interested in weight loss, see Benefits of Flaxseed Meal for Weight Loss. What about the cyanide content of flax? I answered that in Friday Favorites: How Well Does Cooking Destroy the Cyanide in Flaxseeds and Should We Be Concerned About It?. What else can help fight inflammation? Check out in related posts below. Key Takeaways A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that, compared to placebo, dietary flaxseed consumption resulted in an extraordinary drop in high blood pressure, which is “the single largest risk factor” for death globally. Nine out of ten people take less than 80 percent of their prescribed blood pressure pills, due in part to inconvenience, cost, and potential side effects “to treat a mostly asymptomatic condition that commonly does not cause problems for many years.” The drop in blood pressure seen in the flaxseed study exceeded the average drop observed with typical doses of anti-hypertensive drugs, and flaxseeds are cheaper, too, and have other good side effects, such as increased fiber intake, which may be beneficial for those transitioning from low-fiber diets. Although not all studies showed significant blood pressure–lowering effects, the overall analysis of more than a dozen trials with more than a thousand subjects found significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure with flaxseed supplementation, and longer trials tend to show better results. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and every component of interest in flaxseed—including the omega-3s, cancer-fighting lignans, soluble fiber, and plant proteins—contributes to lowering blood pressure. Norvasc, Procardia, and some other common blood-pressure drugs work by slowing down the heart or reducing its ability to contract, but that’s not how flaxseeds work. It’s thought that consumption of flaxseeds reduces blood pressure in hypertensive patients by inhibiting the enzyme that makes pro-inflammatory oxylipins, fatty acid metabolites that are involved in inflammation and, as a result, are implicated in aging, cardiovascular disease, and other pro-inflammatory conditions. Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory oxylipins dropped after four weeks of flaxseed consumption, suggesting that supplementing with flaxseed is “a potential therapeutic strategy to correct the deleterious pro-inflammatory oxylipin profile.” To read the original article click here.

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Support Coronary Health With THIS Amino Acid

AHA Publisher — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 08:00:48 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Every 34 seconds in the United States, somebody dies of heart disease. In fact, cardiovascular disease is currently the leading cause of death in the nation, claiming about 697,000 lives in 2020 alone. In coronary heart disease – the most common type of heart condition – arteries can’t deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to the heart. Lysine, a common amino acid, is believed to inhibit plaque build-up and promote heart health. Moreover, a this study suggests that lysine can lower high blood pressure – a known risk factor for heart disease. Let’s see what other health benefits this nutrient has to offer. Lysine Is a “Jack of All Trades” That Supports the Health of Multiple Systems First of all, what is lysine’s role in the body? A building block for proteins, it is vital for muscle growth and maintenance. And, as it helps to prevent the loss of lean muscle mass, it may be particularly beneficial in improving strength and mobility in elderly people. Lysine also helps to produce collagen – a protein needed for speedy wound healing, healthy skin, and flexible arteries. In addition, lysine contributes to bone health and wards off osteoporosis by supporting the absorption of calcium. It also supports the immune system by assisting the production of infection-fighting antibodies. As if that weren’t enough, this versatile nutrient is also involved in the creation of enzymes and hormones. One more surprising attribute of lysine is its ability to ease anxiety and lower levels of the “stress” hormone, cortisol. In one randomized, placebo-controlled study, a week of supplementation with lysine and arginine reduced anxiety and lowered cortisol in healthy adults with stress-induced anxiety. Finally, this amino acid is believed to help control outbreaks of “cold sores” resulting from the herpes simplex Type 1 virus. Clearly, when it comes to sustaining health, lysine “wears many hats.” Supplementation May Help Keep Blood Pressure in Healthy Range Some researchers maintain that lysine can reduce hypertension (high blood pressure) by preventing pressure buildup in the arteries. Recent research has shown that people with suboptimal lysine intake and high blood pressure experienced lowered blood pressure when supplemented with lysine. In a randomized, placebo-controlled study published in BMC Nutrition, 1,000 mg of lysine a day for 112 days significantly lowered systolic blood pressure (the top number, which measures the force of each heartbeat). In fact, this measurement dropped by an average of almost 20 points! The scientists concluded that the amino acid may be a “useful nutrient” when added to hypertension medications. Lysine May Promote Heart Health by Reinforcing Collagen Nobel prize-winning researcher Linus Pauling maintained that lysine may help promote heart health by strengthening collagen (“like steel rods in concrete,” in his colorful analogy), thereby helping to prevent collagen fracture and blood clots. When there are extra amounts of lysine and the amino acid proline in the blood, Pauling declared, the lipoprotein-a attachment sites are obstructed by lysine, creating a “Teflon-like” coating around the particles and preventing them from binding to the arterial walls. In this way, lysine is believed to prevent plaque buildup – reducing the threat of atherosclerosis and high blood pressure. Unfortunately, these findings have been generally greeted with indifference by many conventional cardiologists. Mostly due to the ground-breaking work of Linus Pauling (and others, such as Dr. Sidney Bush), some natural health experts advise a combination of vitamin C and lysine to reverse atherosclerosis and help prevent heart attacks. For example, the Dr. Rath Health Foundation’s Cellular Recommendations for Heart Health call for 100 to 500 mg of the nutrient a day, along with other amino acids, bioflavonoids, vitamins, and minerals. Boost Dietary Intake With Meat, Beans, and Nuts Lysine is an essential amino acid, meaning it is not produced by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. It is found in animal products, including grass-fed beef, dairy products, cage-free eggs, and wild-caught salmon or sardines. For vegetarians and vegans, no worries: lysine is also found in wheat germ, beans, lentils, amaranth, buckwheat, and nuts. While most people get enough lysine through diet, supplementation may be advisable. People recovering from burns or other severe injuries – and those who perform frequent, high-intensity workouts – may require a higher-than-average intake. Natural healers typically recommend amounts of up to 3 grams a day – but consult your own integrative doctor before supplementing. Capable of promoting stable mood, bone health, heart health, and better immunity, lysine is clearly too important to take for granted. Eating a healthy diet can help ensure that you are consuming enough of this health-promoting amino acid. Sources for this article include: MedicalNewsToday.com DrRathFoundation.org NIH.gov CDC.gov Healthline.com To read the original article click here.

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Irregularities in Sleep Timing and Duration Linked With Increased Risk of Hypertension

AHA Publisher — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 07:30:45 +0000

American Academy of Sleep Medicine via News-Medical – A study of more than two million nights of sleep and blood pressure data found that irregularities in sleep timing and duration were associated with an increased risk of hypertension. Results show that high sleep duration irregularity was associated with a 9% to 15% increase in hypertension risk. Furthermore, a 38-minute increase in sleep midpoint irregularity was associated with an 11% risk increase, and a 31-minute increase in sleep onset time irregularity was associated with a 29% increased risk of hypertension. “This new approach to noninvasive nightly monitoring of sleep duration and timing in people’s homes for an average period of six months each combined with regular blood pressure monitoring has shown us just how important having a regular sleep routine and getting enough sleep is for your health, in this case your heart health,” said lead author Hannah Scott, who has a doctorate in sleep health and is a sleep health research associate at the Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health (AISH), Flinders University. “These novel data shed new light into the restorative benefits of sleep and raise potential concerns for the substantial proportion of shift workers in our modern 24-hour society.” The researchers analyzed data collected over nine months from 12,300 participants who were between 18 and 90 years old. Metrics were recorded with an under-mattress sleep device and a portable blood pressure monitor. Sleep duration regularity was assessed as the standard deviation via device-assessed total sleep time. Sleep timing regularity was assessed as the standard deviation in sleep onset time and in sleep midpoint. Logistic regressions controlling for age, sex, body mass index, and mean total sleep time were conducted to investigate potential associations between sleep regularity and hypertension, which was found in 2,499 participants. “These new insights into the potential adverse impact of irregular sleep timing and duration on heart health further highlight the importance of the role synchronizing the body clock and prioritizing enough sleep opportunity for optimal health and wellbeing.” Danny Eckert, senior author Danny Eckert has a doctorate in sleep and respiratory physiology and is professor and director of AISH. The researchers noted that prior studies of sleep and heart health have been limited in sample size and restricted to a short period of time. The current study investigated associations between sleep regularity and hypertension in a large, global sample over multiple months. This was an unfunded investigator-initiated study. Deidentified data were provided by Withings for unrestricted investigator-led analysis. One of the co-authors serves as a consultant for Withings. To read the original article click here.

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Deep Nerve Stimulation Consistently Reduces Blood Pressure

AHA Publisher — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 07:00:13 +0000

University of Houston via Newswise – A University of Houston biomedical engineer is expanding the study of wireless electrodes to treat hypertension and is reporting that blood pressure and renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) is controlled by bioelectronic treatment. RSNA is often increased in hypertension and renal disease. Using a custom-wired electrode, Mario Romero-Ortega, Cullen Endowed Professor of biomedical engineering, previously reported that deep peroneal nerve stimulation (DPNS) elicits an acute reduction in blood pressure. The current study, published in Frontiers in Neuroscience, advances that work, focusing on his development of a small implantable wireless neural stimulation system and exploration of different stimulation parameters to achieve a maximum lowered response. Romero-Ortega integrated a sub-millimeter nerve stimulation circuit with a novel nerve attachment microchannel electrode that facilitates implantation into small nerves and allows external power and DPNS modulation control. Using this implantable device, his team demonstrated that systolic blood pressure can be lowered 10% in one hour and 16% two hours after nerve stimulation. “Our results indicate that DPNS consistently induces an immediate and reproducible arterial depressor effect in response to electrical stimulation of the deep peroneal nerve,” reports Romero-Ortega. Hypertension, often called the ‘silent killer’ speaks loudly in statistics. In the United States, it is the number one cause of death. Globally it is the number one risk factor for death, impacting more than 1 billion people and is to blame for about half of all stroke and heart related deaths. The American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association 2018 guidelines classified average systolic blood pressure as greater than 130 mmHg and diastolic BP greater than 80 mmHg, on at least two separate occasions, as hypertension. While pharmacological treatments are effective, blood pressure remains uncontrolled in 50–60% of resistant hypertensive subjects. Unfortunately, despite the use of multiple antihypertensive drugs in combination, blood pressure remains poorly controlled in 50–60% of the hypertensive population and approximately 12–18% of them develop resistant hypertension, defined as blood pressure greater than 140/90 mmHg despite the use of antihypertensive drugs. “In this study, DPNS induced an initial increase in RSNA during the first 2–3 seconds, followed by a reduction in renal activity and mean arterial pressure, despite the increase in heart rate,” said Romero-Ortega. The observed activation of the RSNA during the DPNS was not expected since its activity is associated with hypertension.” To read the original article click here.

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Combining Certain Meds With Ibuprofen Can Permanently Injure Kidneys

AHA Publisher — Fri, 13 May 2022 07:00:27 +0000

University of Waterloo via Newswise – Anyone who is taking a diuretic and a renin-angiotensin system (RSA) inhibitor for high blood pressure should be cautious about also taking ibuprofen, according to new research. Diuretics and RSA inhibitors are commonly prescribed together for people with hypertension and are available under various pharmaceutical brand names. Painkillers such as ibuprofen are available over-the-counter in most pharmacies and stores in popular brands. Researchers at the University of Waterloo used computer-simulated drug trials to model the interactions of the three drugs and the impact on the kidney. They found that in people with certain medical profiles, the combination can cause acute kidney injury, which in some cases can be permanent. “It’s not that everyone who happens to take this combination of drugs is going to have problems,” said Anita Layton, professor of applied mathematics at Waterloo and Canada 150 Research Chair in mathematical biology and medicine. “But the research shows it’s enough of a problem that you should exercise caution.” Computer-simulated drug trials can quickly produce results that would take much longer in human clinical trials. Layton and her team use mathematics and computer science to give medical practitioners a head start with issues like drug complications. The research, in this case, can also speak directly to the many people who are taking drugs for hypertension and may reach for a painkiller with ibuprofen without giving it much thought. “Diuretics are a family of drugs that make the body hold less water,” Layton said. “Being dehydrated is a major factor in acute kidney injury, and then the RAS inhibitor and ibuprofen hit the kidney with this triple whammy. If you happen to be on these hypertension drugs and need a painkiller, consider acetaminophen instead.” Layton’s new research paper, with co-authors Jessica Leete, Carolyn Wang, and Francisco J. López-Hernández, “Determining risk factors for triple whammy acute kidney injury,” appears in the journal Mathematical Biosciences. To read the original article click here.

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