The role of nutrition, nutraceuticals, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals in the prevention and treatment of hypertension.

The role of nutrition, nutraceuticals, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals in the prevention and treatment of hypertension. Altern Ther Health Med. 2013;19 Suppl 1:32-49 Authors: Houston MC Abstract Macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies are very common in the general population and may be even more common in patients with hypertension and cardiovascular disease due to genetic or environmental causes and prescription drug use. These deficiencies will have an enormous impact on present and future cardiovascular health and outcomes, such as hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke and renal disease, and on overall health costs. The diagnosis and treatment of these nutrient deficiencies can reduce blood pressure; improve vascular health, endothelial dysfunction, and vascular biology; and decrease cardiovascular events. Vascular biology assumes a pivotal role in the initiation and perpetuation of hypertension and target organ damage (TOD). Endothelial activation, oxidative stress, inflammation, autoimmune vascular dysfunction, and vascular smooth-muscle dysfunction are initial events in hypertension. Nutrientgene interactions determine a broad array of phenotypic consequences, such as vascular problems and hypertension. In addition to other lifestyle modifications, optimal nutrition, nutraceutical supplements, vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, weight loss, exercise, smoking cessation, and moderate restriction of alcohol and caffeine can ...
Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine - Category: Complementary Medicine Authors: Tags: Altern Ther Health Med Source Type: research