Neglected Potential for Optimal Blood Pressure: The Tool Sidelined
In a groundbreaking study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, exercise has been found to be as effective as prescription antihypertensive medications for lowering high blood pressure. This revelation, based on a pooled analysis of all available data comparing the effects of exercise on blood pressure versus those of prescription drugs, could potentially revolutionize the approach to managing hypertension.
The study, which looked at 194 clinical trials that examined the impact of drugs on lowering systolic blood pressure and 197 trials that studied the impact of structured exercise on blood pressure, revealed some fascinating insights. The analyses were repeated in a group of exercise trials that included only participants with high blood pressure.
The research categorized structured exercise into several modalities, including endurance (such as walking, jogging, running, cycling, and swimming), high intensity interval training (HIIT), dynamic resistance (such as strength training with dumbbells or kettlebells), isometric resistance (such as the static push-up or plank), and a combination of endurance and resistance.
When restricted to those with high blood pressure, exercise was just as effective as most drugs in lowering blood pressure. In fact, the effectiveness of exercise in lowering blood pressure increased with higher thresholds defining high blood pressure (above 140 mm Hg).
One of the key benefits of exercise over prescription medications is the lack of dangerous side effects. Common side effects of blood pressure medications include cough, diarrhea or constipation, dizziness, erection problems, feeling nervous, fatigue, headache, nausea or vomiting, skin rash, and weight loss or gain without trying. Some types of blood pressure medications can also increase the risk of death due to blood pressure variability.
However, it's important to note that regular blood pressure checks could potentially prevent the need for prescription medications and their side effects. For instance, a speaker in the study checks her and her husband's blood pressure regularly due to a family history of heart disease.
In addition to exercise, certain supplements and nutrients have been found to support heart health. Green tea extract contains catechins that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, while grape seed extract activates nitric oxide in the lining of blood vessels, promoting healthy blood flow. Pterostilbene helps block the creation of Angiotensin II, an enzyme that stiffens blood vessel walls and increases sodium and water retention.
EDTA chelation therapy, originally developed to remove contaminants from the body, is now used for various health purposes, including improving circulation. This therapy, along with maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise, could contribute to overall heart health and the management of high blood pressure.
In conclusion, the pooled evidence from the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that exercise is as effective as prescription antihypertensive medications for lowering high blood pressure, with particular benefits noted for specific exercise modalities such as static resistance training and HIIT. Embracing an active lifestyle could be a potent, evidence-supported means for managing high blood pressure, potentially rivaling the effectiveness of prescription drugs.
- The recent study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that structured exercise, especially high intensity interval training (HIIT) and static resistance training, are as effective as many prescription antihypertensive medications in lowering high blood pressure.
- While prescription medications for hypertension management may have harmful side effects such as cough, diarrhea, dizziness, and increased risk of death due to blood pressure variability, exercise offers a safer approach to heart health and blood pressure management.
- Incorporating certain supplements and nutrients, like green tea extract, grape seed extract, and pterostilbene, which support heart health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, along with EDTA chelation therapy for improved circulation, and a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen could contribute to overall heart health and the management of high blood pressure.
