A study suggests that B vitamins could be an effective way to lower blood pressure, especially for people who do not respond well to standard medications. Researchers from the University of Maine found that reducing levels of a compound called homocysteine in the blood through B vitamin supplements may help manage high blood pressure.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a major health concern worldwide. About 12.8% of people have drug-resistant hypertension, meaning their blood pressure stays high even after taking three different types of blood pressure medication.
With newer guidelines defining hypertension as 130/80 mmHg instead of the older 140/90 mmHg, managing the condition has become even more challenging.
Homocysteine is a natural byproduct of metabolism that plays a role in vitamin regulation. High levels of homocysteine can result from genetic factors or low levels of certain B vitamins, including B6, B12, folate (B9), and riboflavin (B2).
When homocysteine levels are too high, it can lead to narrowing of blood vessels, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
The good news is that lowering homocysteine is affordable and safe because it can be done with vitamin supplementation. In this study, the researchers reviewed past studies and found that supplementing with B vitamins lowered blood pressure by 6 to 13 mmHg.
This suggests that B vitamins could be a useful addition to standard treatments, especially for those whose blood pressure remains high despite medication.
The researchers also pointed out a problem with how homocysteine levels are currently measured. While the recommended normal level is 10 μmol/L or lower, some laboratories still consider 11.4 μmol/L to be within the normal range. The researchers argue that lab values should be updated and that even lower homocysteine levels might be safer for overall health.
Although vitamin therapy may be helpful for people with drug-resistant hypertension, the researchers emphasize that it should be used under medical supervision. Anyone considering vitamin supplements for blood pressure management should consult their doctor or a qualified healthcare provider.
This study, led by Merrill Elias, was published in the American Journal of Hypertension and highlights the potential of B vitamins as a safe and cost-effective tool for improving blood pressure control.
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