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The role of nutrition and nutraceutical supplements in the prevention and treatment of hypertension

Mark C Houston

Macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies are frequently found in subjects with cardiac disease, vascular problems, hypertension and dyslipidemia as a result of genetic–environmental interactions, and prescription and over-the-counter drug use. The impact on cardiovascular outcomes and healthcare costs is large. The diagnosis and treatment of these nutrient deficiencies may improve endothelial dysfunction and vascular disease and lower blood pressure. Vascular biology with endothelial activation, inflammation oxidative stress and immune dysfunction of arteries are early events in hypertension-related vascular disease. Proper nutrition, nutraceuticals, vitamins, weight management, exercise and other lifestyle changes, are effective in the management of hypertension in most patients. A combinination of drugs with these lifestyle treatments reduce cardiovascular disease. The new scientific role for nutraceuticals and nutrition in the treatment of essential hypertension are reviewed in this article.