Hypertension

Abstract

Hypertension is present in roughly half of the US population and raises the risk and prevalence of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, heart attack, and stroke. Many patients have difficulty controlling their blood pressure despite many available pharmaceuticals. This chapter explores the pathophysiology and definition of hypertension, as well as many lifestyle-based modifications that patients can make to improve blood pressure and reduce the risk of adverse cardiovascular events. The pathophysiology of hypertension is multifactorial and affected by neurohormonal signals, levels of inflammation, multiorgan feedback regulation, and is directly affected by physical activity and nutrient consumption. Routine physical activity as well as several diets, such as the well-known DASH and Mediterranean diets, which recommend low levels of fat and salt, and high levels of whole foods, fruits, and vegetables, have been shown to effectively reduce blood pressure. Many nutritional minerals and vitamins also play a role in blood pressure regulation. These vitamins and minerals can act through vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory or electrolyte regulatory mechanisms to help augment blood pressure lowering. In summary, there are many lifestyle modifications, ranging from research-proven diets, to exercise, to dietary supplementation, that can help lower blood pressure and reduce risk of poor health outcomes.