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Hypertension is a condition of increased blood pressure on blood vessels. It is considered as one of the most common lifestyle diseases and has affected around 50 million people in the United States. Hypertension, also called high blood pressure, is categorized into two types - essential hypertension and secondary hypertension - on the basis of the underlying causes for its occurrence. The reason for essential hypertension is not easily identifiable and treated, while secondary hypertension is the complication of any other existing chronic disease such as alcohol abuse, kidney failure, and hormonal imbalance. It is a highly risky disease, which essentially needs treatment, since it can lead to arteriosclerosis that results degenerative diseases, stroke, and cardiac arrest.

Now, natural treatment is preferred to reduce hypertension, as people are more aware of the possible side effects of conventional medication. Natural treatment methodology also has a unique advantage to cure the underlying causes, which the conventional medicines usually lack. Natural methods focus to cure the risk factors for hypertension such as cholesterol, hormonal imbalance, diabetes and obesity to restore the equilibrium and perfect functioning of the body.

Natural treatment primarily starts with life style modification since bad habits have contributed much to the cause of the disease. Balanced diet and diet modification is an essential part of natural treatment, which helps to reduce obesity, a major risk factor for hypertension. In addition to other nutrients, potassium, calcium and magnesium have to be additionally included in the diet since they play vital role in blood control. The increased tendency to partake in common salt must be avoided, to maintain the balance of electrolytes. A recommended mineral rich diet must include milk and milk products, fishes, oysters, nuts, green vegetables, and fruits such as bananas, potatoes, and molasses. Supplements of minerals and vitamins are to be used, if a proper diet is not feasible.

Natural treatment requires hypertension patients to implement certain lifestyle modifications. Exercise and relaxation therapies are an inevitable part of natural treatment. The excess calories have to be burnt off through regular exercises and it helps to induce oxygenation of blood. Relaxation therapies and meditation techniques such as yoga, breathing exercises, tai chi, biofeedback, and hypnotherapy help to avoid stress and other related psychiatric problems. Avoid alkaloid rich drinks such as coffee and fatty foods. Smoking has to be essentially quitted and dependency on alcohol has to be avoided.

Natural treatment also suggests certain herbal remedies such as Withania somnifera, Convolvulus pluricaulis, Passiflora, and Ginkgo biloba. Garlic is also recommended as a routine ingredient of diet since it has the power of being a blood thinner. However, be cautious when taking herbal supplements, only using according to the advice of a physician since herbal alkaloids may interfere the balance of the body functions.

Hypertension is a silent killer, which exhibit its symptoms only in advanced conditions. Hence, modify your lifestyle to practice good habits and a balanced diet and you can reduce the risk of hypertension naturally.

Jason Rickard is the owner of Your Favourite Shop - Offering White Noise and Relaxation CDs - Visit Hapa Health for more articles.

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