According to the American Heart, Blood, and Lung Association, “1 in 3 adults in the United States have HBP. HBP itself usually has no symptoms. You can have it for years without knowing it. During this time, though, it can damage the: 

• Heart
• Blood vessels
• Kidneys
• Other parts of your body.” ¹

 There are many factors that can have an impact on one’s blood pressure.  For example:                          

• Age
• Genetics
• Being overweight
• General Health
• Emotional State
• Activity Level 

High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” since more often than not, there are no associated symptoms.  Therefore, it is essential that you have yours checked periodically before symptoms do arise.  Fortunately, this condition is easy to detect if you are having regular check ups.  If you do not go to the doctor regularly, then you can find blood pressure machines at most pharmacies and drug stores.  

Blood Pressure Readings

It is important to be aware of your blood pressure numbers.  If they are too high for a prolonged period of time you may be headed for further complications, such as a stroke or a variety of other health problems. Low blood pressure may indicate other medical conditions and should be evaluated.  As you may know, there are two sets of numbers that represent your blood pressure.  The systolic pressure is always mentioned first, then the diastolic.  The reading is then expressed as 120 over 80, for example.²

In general, more attention is given to the top number (the systolic blood pressure) as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease for people over 50 years old. In the majority of people, systolic blood pressure rises steadily with age due to increasing stiffness of large arteries, long-term build-up of plaque, and along with cardiac and vascular disease.

• Systolic –  The higher (top) number that represents the pressure while the heart contracts to pump blood to the body.
• Diastolic – The lower (bottom) number representing the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.  

 After your blood pressure has been taken, be sure to get the numbers and if you are not sure what they represent, write them down and have your doctor explain them to you.  You can also ask your doctor what level your blood pressure should be at for you personally.   

Reducing High Blood Pressure Naturally

Depending on the cause, high blood pressure can be reduced in a number of ways.  For example, if it is due to high salt intake, then reducing salt in the diet can be helpful.  Those who are sedentary may benefit from some form of activity.  If being overweight is the cause, then losing some pounds would most likely help to reduce high blood pressure.  Reducing stress can also be beneficial. 

Furthermore, if this condition is caused by excess fibrin (protein buildup) in the kidneys, hardening of the arteries (due to plaque), or vascular inflammation, then systemic enzyme therapy can be used to help remove the excess fibrin, arterial plaque, and inflammation. 

 VitalzymSEB is a natural dietary supplement that contains proteolytic (protein digesting) enzymes, such as along with the nattokinase enzyme and other “heart healthy” nutrients to create an enzyme formulation specifically for cardiovascular wellness. 

Further Reading

Inflammation in high blood pressure: a clinician perspective

Related American Heart Association (AHA) publications:

What Is High Blood Pressure?

How Can I Reduce High Blood Pressure?

 Why Should I Limit Sodium?

Heart and Stroke Facts 

References

 1.  The American Heart, Blood, and Lung Association

2.  The American Heart Association