by Melissa Chichester
What comes to mind first is likely the nurse measuring your blood pressure.
Blood pressure numbers measure how your body is pumping blood against the walls of your arteries.
This number is measured with two numbers: systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure.
According to the Centers for Disease Control:
Blood pressure readings have the systolic blood pressure on top of the diastolic blood pressure on a medical chart. For example, 120/80. This is considered the normal range for blood pressure, but this range can fluctuate.
The American Heart Association notes that the first number is the one to watch for any potential irregularities that serve as health clues, especially for people over 50 – but both numbers are important.
Some people may also experience temporarily elevated blood pressure due to life circumstances such as excess stress or certain medications. High blood pressure may also be genetic. Consistent high or elevated blood pressure readings will likely lead to your healthcare provider suggesting additional tests or daily monitoring.
For people with blood pressure levels currently in a normal range, there are some supplements that can help maintain good health and wellness.* Here are four supplements that support blood pressure.*
>>Shop all blood pressure support supplements
Coenzyme Q-10 is a fat-soluble substance similar to a vitamin. With age, levels of coenzyme Q-10 may diminish in the body – and supplementation may help.* It is involved in supplying the cellular energy production needed to nourish the heart.* Co Q-10 also supports healthy blood pressure levels already within a normal range.*
Ubiquinol is the most common form of CoQ-10 in the body – it’s the active form of CoQ-10 that fights free radicals for antioxidant support.* 200 mg of Ubiquinol also helps support healthy blood pressure levels already in a normal range.* Unfortunately, ubiquinol levels in the body reach peak levels by age 20 and decrease by up to 50% by age 80.1
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Nattokinase is an enzyme from the fermented Japanese soybean, natto. With its stringy and slimy texture, you probably do not eat it often. However, in Japan, natto is served with rice and topped with soy sauce and mustard.
To get more of this helpful enzyme, nattokinase is available as a supplement. It supports heart and circulatory health in addition to blood pressure levels already within a normal range.*
Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that is produced in the body and it is closely involved in the natural sleep cycle.* It helps improve the quality of rest, especially during times of occasional sleeplessness and sleep disruptions from travel.* However, when taken at bedtime, melatonin may provide blood pressure support for levels already within a normal range.*
Maintaining healthy blood pressure is a daily practice. Eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly can help with all aspects of health. Always discuss taking new supplements with your doctor and seek out testing if you are concerned about your blood pressure.
