Does Your Blood Pressure Rise Despite Your Best Efforts?

High blood pressure is known as the silent killer because it creeps up on you without warning and leads to heart disease, stroke, kidney malfunction, blood sugar imbalances and a host of other problems. Millions of people struggle to get their blood pressure under control despite sticking to a healthy diet and regular exercise while taking multiple medications.

Why does this happen?

Your blood pressure could be spiraling out of control because of three often overlooked culprits…

Calcium buildup in your arteries

Your blood pressure may rise because ‘calcium plaque’ is deposited in your blood vessels. The diameter of your veins and arteries affects your blood pressure. A larger opening requires less pressure. But calcium deposits force your blood to squeeze through narrowed pathways—and your blood pressure rises.

Inadequate amounts of nitric oxide (NO)

Unbalanced levels of nitric oxide (naturally produced in your body from the amino acid L-arginine and oxygen) may also cause your blood pressure to rise. This gaseous molecule signals your blood vessels to relax and open up to allow blood to pass through easily. The widening of the blood vessels—called vasodilation—increases your blood flow, decreases your blood pressure and helps keep your blood platelets from sticking together.

Presence of the enzyme Angiotensin II

Unstable blood pressure may also result from blood vessel constriction and water retention caused by the Angiotensin II enzyme. When the blood vessels constrict, your blood must try to squeeze through. This can damage the lining and make your arteries hard and stiff. This enzyme can also raise your sodium levels, resulting in water retention and elevated blood pressure.

Actions to take

While following your doctor’s advice, it is also helpful to keep in mind that natural vitamins and nutrients can help combat these serious threats to your blood pressure such as Vitamin K2, Magnesium, and Argnine. These can be taken as nutritional supplements as well as through their natural sources: Green leafy vegetables such as spinach and raw nuts such as almonds and walnuts are rich in vitamin K2 and magnesium. Chickpeas and seafood are good sources of arginine. These natural foods and supplements can effectively manage your blood pressure and help protect your cardiovascular system.