Can Vitamin B Help You Manage Your High Blood Pressure?

Author: Paul J Johnson

| Posted: 26-03-2007 | Comments: 0 | Views: 53 | Rating: (50)

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Garlic contains different vitamins such as vitamins B and C that are required by the body to remain healthy and strong. Clinical studies have found that Vitamin B12 is considered to be one vitamin which is beneficial in lowering blood pressure. Unfortunately, B 12 isn't one of the B vitamins within garlic. However, some believe foods which contain a particular substance known as inluins - such as garlic - help to stimulate the growth of specific bacteria known as lactobacillus in the colon. These bacteria produce B12 and may supply the body with some of the vitamin.

Nevertheless, in order for vitamin B12 to be used as a serious treatment for controlling hypertension, it must be taken in the form of a supplement or come from food sources that are rich in B12.

How does Vitamin B12 help reduce blood pressure? Vitamin B12, also known as folate or folic acid, plays an essential role in the formation of red blood cells. It is believed to help lower blood pressure by helping blood vessels relax, improve circulation, and by lowering homocysteine levels.

Homocysteine is an amino acid that exists in the blood. It is a toxic waste product that is created during cellular metabolism. If the levels of homocysteine become too high (which could be related to a poor diet or genetics), researchers believe it can damage the inner lining of arteries and encourage blood clots. Elevated homocysteine is also connected to a higher risk of stroke, peripheral vascular disease, and coronary heart disease.

Various studies have been conducted to determine the blood pressure-lowering effects of folic acid taken in the form of a supplement. In one small study involving 24 cigarette smokers, folic acid supplements were found to significantly lower the blood pressure in these individuals.

Another study conducted on young women, found that those who receive a minimum of 1,000 micrograms of B12 daily, either from their diet or by taking supplements, are less likely to develop hypertension; lowering their risk by more than 45%.

Although researchers have already concluded that a diet rich in folic acid can lower high blood pressure, this was the first study to reveal that higher intake of folic acid can lower the risk of developing hypertension.

How can you take vitamin B12? Vitamin B12 is naturally found in leafy green vegetables, lentils and citrus fruits. It can also be found in other food sources including dairy products, eggs, fish, beef, pork and organ meats (especially kidney and liver). Some foods may also be fortified with folic acid including certain bread and cereal products.

Usually, people who have a daily diet rich in folic acid do not require supplements. However, approximately 10-30% of elderly people (65 years and older) may not be able to properly absorb Vitamin B12 from food and will require supplements.

For those who are interested in taking supplements, vitamin B12 can be found as part of a multivitamin, or as an individual supplement. Supplements are usually in the form of a tablet or capsule and are taken daily. Before taking supplements you should read all of the product instructions and talk to your doctor about the recommended dose for treating your high blood pressure.

Is vitamin B12 safe? Vitamin B12 is usually safe and non-toxic when the recommended amount is ingested. That being said, folic acid may cause side effects in some people and interact with certain medications (I.E. certain antibiotics, chemotherapy medications, anti-ulcer medications, etc.) In addition, you should never take any single B complex vitamin by itself for a prolonged period of time, as this can cause an imbalance among other essential B vitamins your body requires.

Thus, when taking B 12 supplements for managing blood pressure, you should be supervised by your health care provider.

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Can Vitamin B Help You Manage Your High Blood Pressure?

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