High blood pressure: the most effective dietary supplements

Arterial hypertension is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a persistent elevation of blood pressure. This pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), with two values: systolic blood pressure (when the heart contracts) and diastolic blood pressure (when the heart is at rest). The clinical thresholds are a systolic blood pressure (SBP) greater than or equal to 140 mmHg and/or a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) greater than or equal to 90 mmHg. Hypertension is one of the most common chronic diseases. It affects about one third of adults, and its prevalence increases with age. Among people over 65 years old, 65% are affected. In France, about 11 million people are treated for hypertension, but only half reach the recommended blood pressure targets.

Symptoms and Complications

Hypertension can develop without any apparent symptoms for years. However, at advanced stages, it can cause headaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears, or blurred vision. If left untreated, hypertension significantly increases the risk of serious complications such as: • Stroke (CVA) • Myocardial infarction (heart attack) • Heart failure • Kidney failure

Risk Factors

High blood pressure can be caused by various factors. Some are non-modifiable, such as age, family history, and sex (it affects men more). In contrast, factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, a high-salt diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and low potassium intake can be modified by lifestyle changes. Underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney failure, also increase the risk of developing hypertension.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of hypertension is based on repeated blood pressure measurements taken on several occasions and under different circumstances to avoid temporary variations related to stress or other factors. It is recommended to use an arm cuff and an electronic device to measure blood pressure at home. 24-hour ambulatory monitoring can also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Initial measures include lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt intake (less than 6 g/day), weight loss, increased physical activity, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, reduced alcohol consumption, and smoking cessation. If lifestyle changes are not sufficient to control hypertension, medication is necessary. The main classes of drugs used are: • Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) • Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) • Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) • Thiazide diuretics Combinations of medications are often preferred to improve effectiveness and reduce side effects.

Prevention

Prevention of hypertension mainly involves the same lifestyle and dietary measures recommended for its management: • Reduced salt intake • Maintaining a healthy weight • Regular physical activity • Moderate alcohol consumption • Smoking cessation • A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in saturated fats.