What vitamins should you avoid with high blood pressure?
It is generally recommended to avoid certain vitamins that can increase your blood pressure if you already suffer from high blood pressure. These include vitamin C, as it can increase blood pressure due to its natural stimulant effects; B vitamins, especially B-6, as high doses can cause a rapid rise in blood pressure; and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid.
Other vitamins that may be linked to higher blood pressure levels when taken in high doses include vitamin D, calcium, niacin, and folic acid. While vitamins play an important role in the body and should not be eliminated completely, it is wise to be mindful of the doses you are taking and to discuss any supplementation plan with your healthcare provider.
For most people with high blood pressure, a balanced diet rich in whole foods should provide all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
Is it OK to take multivitamins with high blood pressure?
Taking multivitamins with high blood pressure is generally safe. However, you should definitely check with your doctor before taking any kind of supplement. Some vitamins and minerals can interact with blood pressure medications, so it’s important to get the okay from your doctor before taking any kind of supplement or medication.
Furthermore, it’s important to be mindful of your overall intake of vitamins and minerals, as too much of a certain vitamin or mineral can be just as harmful as too little. If your doctor gives you the go ahead, it’s generally best to opt for a low-dose multivitamin that provides the essential vitamins and minerals in amounts that match the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA).
Does zinc lower blood pressure?
Yes, research studies have found that zinc can help lower blood pressure. Zinc is an essential mineral that has been found to improve hypertension. Studies have found that zinc may work by preventing inflammation and constricting arteries, thus reducing blood pressure levels.
When taken orally or applied topically, zinc can reduce diastolic and systolic blood pressure. Zinc supplements were found to reduce systolic blood pressure (the top number) by 6. 1 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) by 4.
0 mm Hg in individuals with high blood pressure.
Incorporating dietary sources of zinc such as shellfish, yogurt, red meat, legumes, nuts, and eggs may be beneficial to those with high blood pressure. Zinc supplements have also been found to be effective in reducing high blood pressure.
However, individuals should consult their healthcare provider to determine the dosage that is best for them.
When should you not take vitamin D?
You should not take vitamin D without first consulting a doctor or other healthcare professional. Factors such as age, general health, and potential dietary restrictions can influence how much vitamin D should be taken.
Ultimately, any decision regarding the vitamin should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. Otherwise, taking too much or too little vitamin D can have unintended consequences. Excessive doses can result in long-term vitamin D toxicity, while insufficient doses can lead to a deficiency.
Additionally, certain medications or medical conditions may interact with vitamin D and may require special considerations. For instance, cholesterol-lowering medications are known to interact with vitamin D, and people with severe kidney or liver disease should generally avoid supplementation.
What are the side effects of taking too much D3?
Taking too much Vitamin D3 can cause a number of side effects, including an abnormally high level of calcium in the blood, known as hypercalcemia, kidney stones, nausea and vomiting, weakness, fatigue, confusion, constipation, and headaches.
In very rare cases, too much Vitamin D3 can also lead to an increased risk for heart attack, stroke, and irregular heartbeat. People who take too much Vitamin D3 may also report feeling overly anxious or nauseous.
Additionally, too much Vitamin D3 may alter the effectiveness of other medications, so it is important to talk to your physician before taking any Vitamin D3 supplements. Excessive amounts of Vitamin D3 can also cause changes in mental status, including delirium and psychosis.
Finally, long term excessive intake of Vitamin D3 can lead to changes in the parathyroid hormone levels and an increased risk for skeletal problems and osteoporosis.
What can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure?
A sudden increase in blood pressure can be caused by a variety of things. High stress and anxiety can lead to “fight or flight” responses and the body can constrict blood vessels and speed up the heart rate, which forces the blood pressure to increase.
Caffeine, sodium, and alcohol consumption can also cause increases in blood pressure if taken in large quantities. Hormones can play a role as well, especially in women during pregnancy, as the baby takes up larger amounts of the mother’s oxygen supply.
Other medical conditions like sleep apnea or thyroid problems can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure. Finally, a sedentary lifestyle with lack of physical activity can cause blood pressure to rise over time.
Are there any vitamins or supplements that cause high blood pressure?
Yes, certain vitamins and supplements can cause high blood pressure. Some notable examples include dietary supplements containing licorice root, ephedra, and hibiscus. Licorice root has been linked to hypertension in numerous studies, whereas ephedra and hibiscus can affect the body similarly to the way caffeine does, increasing blood pressure and heart rate.
Also, the high sodium content in some protein supplements, creatine, and other workout supplements may increase blood pressure in those who are sensitive to it. Additionally, some herbal supplements and medications, such as gingko biloba, ginseng, and saw palmetto, may raise blood pressure if taken in large doses or for extended periods of time.
It is important to note that these are just a few examples, and that more research may be necessary to understand the effects of other vitamins and supplements on blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to always consult with a doctor before taking any vitamins and supplements, especially if you are on any type of blood pressure medication.
