Getting a Handle on The Silent Killer

Millions of Americans suffer from high blood pressure. Maybe “suffer” isn’t exactly the right word, though, because often people aren’t aware that their blood pressure is off the charts. Both heart disease and stroke, two of the nation’s leading killers, are linked to high blood pressure, so it makes sense to keep an eye on this easy-to-measure health marker and do what needs to be done -- medication, stress management, exercise, better diet -- to keep it at moderate levels. Prescription medications can make a big difference. But natural supplements and dietary changes show promise, too.

· For example, researchers in Israel tested a patented, proprietary product based on lycopene, a tomato extract, and found that individuals with slightly elevated blood pressure benefited from daily supplements of 250 mg.

· In Italy, scientists explored the theory that melatonin supplements could help reduce blood pressure, since it usually falls a bit at night, when the body releases the hormone. As they suspected, study participants’ night-time blood pressure was lower after taking melatonin, particularly in those people who did not normally experience a reduction while sleeping.

· Scientists in Finland tested a fermented milk product containing the “friendly” bacteria Lactobacillus helveticus (similar to the bacteria found in high-quality yogurt) on high-blood pressure patients. And once again, the results were positive.

If you’re not sure what your blood pressure is, make an effort to find out. Many pharmacies now offer free or low-cost screenings, and there are blood-pressure monitors that can be used at home. If your score indicates a problem, it’s time to see the doctor.

NOTE: Anyone who is taking medication for high blood pressure should not stop taking the medicine without a physician’s advice and approval. The
methods discussed above are not a substitute for medicine. And please remember, I am not a health care professional. I’m a reporter who specializes in alternative health topics. The information I’m presenting is just that – information. It is not a recommendation, endorsement or medical advice.

One more thing to remember: lycopene, melatonin and “friendly bacteria” (a.k.a. probiotics) have other health benefits. In fact, each substance is a real powerhouse when it comes to enhancing health. And each one is the subject of an upcoming post, so stay tuned….