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In this interview, Jim LaValle discusses the whys and how’s of achieving healthier blood pressure levels. Jim discusses the nutrients that have good scientific basis for supporting healthy blood pressure. He especially focuses onKyolic Aged Garlic Extract (AGE) because of the huge body of scientific studies confirming the benefits of AGE throughout the body. In this interview we will focus on the lifestyle and nutrition factors that you need to know.

What are the lifestyle choices that can affect BP? Diet, exercise, supplementation, stress management, deep breathing, good sleep are very important. For the average healthy person these interventions are likely to be very successful. For someone with health complications or very high BP, the lifestyle choices are still important, but as an adjunct to medical care. In either case, give your body a chance to repair and restore through lifestyle and nutritional supplementation.

Narrative: Hypertension affects almost 29% of adults in the United States, most of who are taking medication to lower their blood pressure. Blood pressure control has been shown to reduce the chances of developing cardiovascular problems and stroke (Manciaet al, 2009), however these reductions are derived from studies of patients with moderate or severe hypertension, and those with a history of prior cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke. The evidence has been unclear on whether pharmacological treatment for previously healthy patients with ‘mild’ hypertension is beneficial.

If you are on medications, talk to your doctor. You should learn about the side effects of your medications and if needed consider supporting your liver health. Many drugs are hard on your liver. Try to understand the many factors that influence blood pressure and employ the strategy that makes the most sense to you. It is your body. Take responsibility and you will find the best path forward.