Improving nutrition, managing stress (eradicating stress where ever possible is even better) sleep quality, reducing inflammation, and physical activity Exercise and blood pressure are all important components of achieving ideal blood pressure. However, for additional support, there are some supplements in my opinion which can help a great deal such as the amino acid taurine.
According to an article in Life Extension Magazine, “Taurine promotes cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, electrolyte balance, hearing function, and immune modulation. In animal research, taurine protected against heart failure, reducing mortality by nearly 80%. Its benefits are so broad and extensive that scientists have described taurine as “a wonder molecule.”
Taurine quells the release of adrenaline which in turn supports lower blood pressure and also has a calming effect similar to the amino acid theanine found in green tea. Taurine also boosts levels of the neurotransmitter GABA which can lower anxiety another major component of high blood pressure.
Taurine may also improve brain health, insulin sensitivity, training performance, as well as natural testosterone production.
One to three grams per day is the standard recommended dosage. Start with one gram per day with a meal. I add one to three grams of taurine to my morning protein shake. Too much taurine may cause stomach upset so increase the dosage gradually. I started with one gram a while back and worked up to three grams per day without any issues. Too much taurine too soon may cause a pretty big drop in blood pressure so er on the side of caution and start with a low dose. Especially if you’re on blood pressure medications or have borderline high blood pressure. Make sure to discuss taurine with your physician especially if you’re on blood pressure medications.
Supplement expert Jerry Brainum mentioned in one of his newsletters that he uses taurine as part of his nighttime regimen to increase relaxation for quality sleep. Similar to again theanine, taurine can increase focus but without the jitters from stimulants such as caffeine, so it can be used at night without impeding sleep quality.
Other supplements that support healthy blood pressure include systemic enzymes, ubiquinol, magnesium, potassium, and theanine. Systemic enzymes, in particular, reduce levels of c-reactive protein an inflammatory marker. Excess inflammation definitely has a deleterious impact on heart health and inflammation is at the root of likely every disease.
The most impressive heart health supplement I have come across is Cardipure which is a blend of ayurvedic herbs which lowers adrenaline levels and in turn, improves blood pressure. One cap night or bedtime helps with improving deep sleep and inducing relaxation.
Finally, while I am not a big fan of pharmaceuticals, there are some that offer some benefits such as Clomid for increasing the natural production of testosterone, Metformin for improving insulin sensitivity and lowering excess glucose levels, and for heart health Telmisartan. If I considered taking a blood pressure medication, telmisartan would be the one I go with as it has the least side effects and also has additional benefits to improve blood pressure such as improved insulin sensitivity, increased nitric oxide levels for stronger erections, heightened fat loss, and a potential training performance boost. More info at Telmisartan information
