Natural Blood Pressure Reducers

Blood pressure is considered high, when two consecutive readings above 140/90 mm Hg are observed. Although medications that reduce blood pressure are available, their effect is temporary and one has to follow the medications lifelong. Additionally, there are numerous risks of high blood pressure medications. Thus, natural blood pressure reducers are a better option, and some of these natural blood pressure reducers are given below.

Natural Blood Pressure Reducer - Yoga
Yoga is considered one of the best natural blood pressure reducer. Though the benefits of yoga have recently become popular, it has been practiced since ages. While doing any exercise the need of blood and oxygen increases. This is not the case while doing yoga. The asanas of yoga have less oxygen and blood requirement. Yoga helps reduce the strain on mind, thereby helps reduce blood pressure. It not only gives mental peace, but improves the functioning of the body organs, including the brain and the heart. Given below, are some of the yogasanas that help reduce blood pressure.

• Sukhasan - It is a meditative pose and its advantages include slowing down the metabolism of the body and straightening the spine.
• Ardha Matsyendrasana - It is also called as half spinal twist and benefits liver, adrenal glands and kidneys.
• Pavanamuktasan - Derived from the Sanskrit word "pavana" meaning wind and "mukta" means free or to release. The pose mainly works on digestive system.
• Anuloma Viloma - It is an alternate breathing technique where you breath air through one nostril, hold the breath and exhale from other nostril.

Natural Blood Pressure Reducer - Exercise
Other than yoga, regular exercises can also help maintain blood pressure. These regular exercises include cycling and walking. Exercises may also reduce the intake of high blood pressure medication. It is recommended that if you are suffering from high blood pressure, you should not exercise excessively, as this may worsen your health. Get your exercise plan from your physician and follow it regularly.

Natural Blood Pressure Reducer - Diet
High blood pressure patients need to make quite a few modifications to their diet. The diet should contain magnesium, calcium, potassium and garlic supplements. High blood pressure patients should strictly avoid salt consumption, as sodium is an important factor that increases the blood pressure. Proper diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables improves the cardiovascular health. The diet should also include important acids required by the body like Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), Eicosapentaeonic Acid (EPA) and Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA). The table will give you an idea of the sources of the nutrients mentioned above.

Nutrient	Sources
Potassium	Tomato, Spinach, Banana, Lentils, Soybeans, Potatoes
Magnesium	Almonds, Brown Rice, Hazelnuts, Spinach, Milk
Calcium	Milk, Broccoli, Chinese Cabbage
ALA	Walnut, Soybeans, Canola oil
DHA and EPA	Tuna, Fish oil or Margarine or Peanut butter

Natural Blood Pressure Reducer - Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate and the food products made from it have proved to reduce blood pressure. The component of dark chocolate called flavanol, has high levels of cocoa that has health benefits. Chocolate confectionery and cocoa drinks are linked to lower blood pressure. It is researched that dark chocolate helps to reduce blood pressure only after a certain age. You have to control the extra calories gained by eating dark chocolate. The amount of consumption of cocoa should be limited. Consult a professional for the amount of dark chocolate and other information, before you go for this option of natural blood pressure reducer.

Other than above mentioned natural blood pressure reducers, music therapy and meditation also help to reduce blood pressure. High blood pressure is called as "silent killer" as it may give rise to severe health consequences. Medications used for high blood pressure have a lot of side effects and thus, natural blood pressure reducers are always the best options to reduce blood pressure.