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The Role Of Salt And Our Bodies

Salt is a common substance that we use to season and preserve food. It is composed of sodium and chloride, and it has many important functions in our body. However, consuming too much or too little salt can have negative consequences for our health.

Salt is essential for many body processes, such as fluid balance, nerve health, nutrient absorption, and muscle function. Sodium, which makes up 40% of salt, helps regulate the amount of water in our cells and blood vessels. It also helps transmit nerve impulses and contract muscles. Chloride, which makes up 60% of salt, helps maintain the acid-base balance of our body fluids and aids digestion by producing stomach acid.

Salt also has some benefits that are not directly related to its physiological functions. For example, salt can help control blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. It can also act as a natural antihistamine by reducing inflammation and mucus production in the respiratory tract. Moreover, salt can help maintain proper stomach pH, which can prevent infections and ulcers.

Consuming too much salt can also harm our health. The main risk of excess salt intake is high blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease and stroke. High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against the walls of our arteries is too high. This can damage the arteries and make them narrow and stiff. As a result, the heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body.

Balance Is Key

High salt intake can also affect other organs and systems in our body. For example, it can increase the risk of kidney stones by causing more calcium to be excreted in the urine. It can also worsen osteoporosis by reducing bone density and increasing bone loss. Furthermore, it can aggravate asthma by causing bronchoconstriction and inflammation in the airways.

On the other hand, consuming too little salt can also be harmful. Low sodium levels in the blood can cause hyponatremia, which is a condition characterized by confusion, dizziness, muscle twitches, seizures, coma, and death. Hyponatremia can occur due to excessive fluid intake, diuretic use, diarrhoea, vomiting, burns, or certain diseases that affect sodium balance.

Therefore, it is important to consume salt in moderation and according to our individual needs. The American Heart Association recommends a maximum intake of no more than 2.3 grams (g) or 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day, which is equivalent to about one teaspoon of salt. However, some people may need less sodium depending on their age, health status, and genetic factors.

To reduce salt intake, we should avoid processed foods that are high in sodium, such as fast food, frozen meals, canned foods, cured meats, sauces, condiments, cereals, chips, crackers, and soups. We should also read food labels carefully and choose products that are low in sodium or have no added salt. Moreover, we should use herbs, spices, lemon juice, vinegar, or other natural flavourings instead of salt to season our food.

In conclusion, salt is a vital substance that we need for our health. It helps regulate many body functions and has some additional benefits. However, consuming too much or too little salt can cause serious problems for our health. Therefore, we should balance our salt intake according to our needs and preferences.

There are many salt alternatives that can help you lower your blood pressure and reduce your sodium intake. Some of them are:

Herbs and spices:

You can use various herbs and spices to add flavour to your food without adding salt. For example, you can use garlic, onion, ginger, turmeric, cumin, oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, parsley, cilantro, mint, dill, and more.

Vinegar:

You can use vinegar to add acidity and brightness to your food. There are many types of vinegar to choose from, such as balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, and more. Vinegar also helps lower blood sugar levels and improve digestion.

Citrus juices and zest:

You can use lemon juice or zest, lime juice or zest, or orange juice or zest to add a tangy and refreshing taste to your dishes. Citrus also helps enhance the flavors of other ingredients and provides vitamin C and antioxidants.

Coconut aminos:

You can use coconut aminos as a low-sodium substitute for soy sauce. Coconut aminos are made from coconut sap and sea salt and have a sweet and savory flavour. They also contain amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein.

Nutritional yeast:

You can use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy and nutty flavour to your food. Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that is rich in protein, fibre, B vitamins, and minerals. It also contains beta-glucan, a type of fibre that may help lower cholesterol levels.

What Supplements Or Herbs Can Lower My Risk Of HBP?

There are some supplements or herbs that may help lower your blood pressure or prevent it from rising. However, you should always consult your pH4Life consultant before taking any supplements or herbs, especially if you are already on medication for high blood pressure or have any medical conditions. Some of the supplements or herbs that may help lower your blood pressure are:

  • Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice that contains curcumin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory effects. Curcumin may help lower blood pressure by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, reducing inflammation, and preventing blood clots.
  • Garlic: Garlic is a herb that contains allicin, a compound that has antibacterial, antioxidant, and antihypertensive effects. Allicin may help lower blood pressure by relaxing and dilating the blood vessels, reducing cholesterol, and preventing plaque formation.
  • Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in many body functions, including nerve and muscle function, blood sugar regulation, and blood pressure control. Magnesium may help lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing stress.
  • Potassium: Potassium is a mineral that helps balance the levels of sodium and fluid in the body. Potassium may help lower blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium, which can cause water retention and increase blood pressure. Potassium also helps regulate the heartbeat and prevent arrhythmias.
  • Coenzyme Q10: Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a substance that is naturally produced by the body and involved in energy production and antioxidant defense. CoQ10 may help lower blood pressure by improving the function of the blood vessels, reducing oxidative stress, and enhancing the effects of some blood pressure medications.

References

References:

¹: https://www.newhealthadvisor.org/turmeric-and-blood-pressure.html

²: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/garlic-and-blood-pressure

³: https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/magnesium-for-high-blood-pressure

⁴: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/potassium/art-20044256

⁵: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coq10-and-blood-pressure

Source: Conversation with Bing, 2023/05/15

 The 6 Best Herbs for Lowering Blood Pressure. https://botanicalinstitute.org/herbs-for-lowering-blood-pressure/.

 10 ways to control high blood pressure without medication. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-20046974.

 15 Best Supplements to Lower Blood Pressure 2023 | ACTIVE. https://www.active.com/nutrition/articles/best-supplements-for-high-blood-pressure.

 Combat High Blood Pressure with Essential Herbs and Vitamins. https://www.healthcentral.com/article/combat-high-blood-pressure-with-essential-herbs-and-vitamins.

(5) Why Turmeric Helps Lower Blood Pressure and How to Use It. https://www.newhealthadvisor.org/turmeric-and-blood-pressure.html.

References:

1: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/salt-alternatives 2: https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-nutritional-yeast 3: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-aminos

References:

¹: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/salt-good-or-bad

²: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/146677

³: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-salt-bad-for-you/

⁴: https://www.wikihow.com/Flush-Salt-Out-of-Your-Body

  Salt: Is It Healthy or Unhealthy?. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/salt-good-or-bad.

 Salt: Uses, effects, and sources – Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/146677.

 Signs You’re Eating Too Much Salt – Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-salt-bad-for-you/.

 How to Flush Salt Out of Your Body: 13 Best Ways – wikiHow. https://www.wikihow.com/Flush-Salt-Out-of-Your-Body.

(5) How much harm can a little excess salt do? Plenty. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2021/05/26/how-much-harm-can-a-little-excess-salt-do-plenty.

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Pink salt and sea salt are both types of salt that are used for seasoning and preserving food. They have some similarities and differences in their origin, composition, taste, and health effects. Here is a brief comparison of pink salt vs sea salt:

Origin: Pink salt is mined from the Himalayan mountains in Pakistan and India. It gets its pink color from traces of iron oxide and other minerals. Sea salt is produced by evaporating seawater. It may vary in color and texture depending on the source and processing method (1, 2).

Composition: Both pink salt and sea salt contain sodium and chloride, as well as other minerals and trace elements. However, pink salt is richer in minerals than sea salt, especially iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Sea salt may have lower mineral content due to pollution or refining (1, 2).

Taste: Pink salt has a mild and slightly sweet flavour, while sea salt has a more intense and briny flavour. The taste of sea salt may also vary depending on the origin and processing method. Some people prefer pink salt for its subtle taste and aesthetic appeal, while others prefer sea salt for its stronger flavour and crunch (1, 2).

Health effects: Both pink salt and sea salt have some health benefits and risks. They can help regulate fluid balance, nerve function, muscle contraction, and nutrient absorption. They can also provide some essential minerals that are not easily obtained from other sources (1, 2).

However, consuming too much of either salt can also harm health. Excess sodium intake can cause high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and osteoporosis. Therefore, it is important to limit salt intake to no more than 2.3 grams (g) or 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day, which is equivalent to about one teaspoon of salt. Some people may need less sodium depending on their age, health status, and genetic factors.

Summary: Pink salt and sea salt are both types of salt that have some similarities and differences. They differ in their origin, composition, taste, and health effects. Neither one is clearly better or worse than the other. The best choice depends on personal preference and moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bronchoconstriction?

Bronchoconstriction is a condition in which the smooth muscles of the bronchi and bronchioles (airways) contract and narrow, making it harder to breathe. Bronchoconstriction can be caused by various factors, such as:

  • Allergens: Substances that trigger an immune response and cause inflammation and swelling of the airways. Examples include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, mold, and food.
  • Irritants: Substances that directly irritate and damage the airway tissues. Examples include smoke, pollution, chemicals, cold air, and dry air.
  • Infections: Viral or bacterial infections that inflame and infect the airways. Examples include colds, flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
  • Exercise: Physical activity that changes the breathing pattern and causes dehydration and cooling of the airways. This can trigger a reflex contraction of the airway muscles.
  • Stress: Emotional or physical stress that activates the nervous system and releases hormones that constrict the airways.

The symptoms of bronchoconstriction include:

  • Shortness of breath: Feeling unable to breathe enough air or breathe deeply.
  • Chest tightness: Feeling pressure or pain in the chest.
  • Coughing: Trying to clear the airways of mucus or irritants.
  • Wheezing: Making a whistling or squeaking sound when breathing.

The treatment of bronchoconstriction depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Some common treatments include:

  • Medications: Drugs that relax the airway muscles and reduce inflammation. Examples include bronchodilators (such as albuterol), corticosteroids (such as fluticasone), and antihistamines (such as cetirizine).
  • Oxygen therapy: Breathing pure oxygen through a mask or tube to increase the oxygen level in the blood and ease breathing.
  • Nebulizer: A device that turns liquid medication into a fine mist that can be inhaled through a mouthpiece or mask to deliver it directly to the airways.
  • Inhaler: A device that delivers a measured dose of medication into the airways through a mouthpiece or spacer.
  • Prevention: Avoiding or minimizing exposure to triggers that cause bronchoconstriction. Examples include wearing a mask, using an air purifier, quitting smoking, managing stress, and warming up before exercise.

References:

¹: https://www.healthline.com/health/bronchoconstriction

²: https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-bronchoconstriction-200966

³: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326760

Source: Conversation with Bing, 2023/05/15

 Bronchoconstriction: Symptoms, Treatments, and Causes – Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/bronchoconstriction.

 Bronchoconstriction: Symptoms, Treatment, and More – Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-bronchoconstriction-200966.

 Bronchoconstriction – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/bronchoconstriction.

What is hyponatremia?

Hyponatremia is a condition where sodium levels in your blood are lower than normal. Sodium is an electrolyte that helps regulate the amount of water in and around your cells, as well as nerve and muscle function. Hyponatremia can cause various symptoms and complications depending on the severity and cause of the condition.

Some of the possible causes of hyponatremia are

– Medications: Some drugs that can lower sodium levels include diuretics (water pills), antidepressants, painkillers, and anticonvulsants.

– Health problems: Some diseases that can affect sodium balance include heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid disease, adrenal disease, and SIADH (a condition where the body makes too much antidiuretic hormone).

– Drinking too much water: This can dilute the sodium concentration in your blood, especially if you drink a lot during exercise or when taking ecstasy (MDMA).

– Losing too much sodium: This can happen due to vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, or burns.

Some of the possible symptoms of hyponatremia are:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Headache and confusion
  • Muscle cramps and spasms
  • Irritability and restlessness
  • Seizures and coma (in severe cases)

The treatment of hyponatremia depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Some of the possible treatments are:

  • Fluid restriction: This can help prevent further dilution of sodium levels in mild cases.
  • Medications: Some drugs that can help raise sodium levels include salt tablets, hypertonic saline (a concentrated salt solution), or vasopressin antagonists (drugs that block the effect of antidiuretic hormone).
  • Intravenous fluids: This can help restore fluid and electrolyte balance in moderate to severe cases or when oral intake is not possible.
  • Treating the underlying cause: This can help prevent recurrence of hyponatremia by addressing the medical condition or medication that is causing it.

References:

¹: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyponatremia/symptoms-causes/syc-20373711

²: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-hyponatremia

  Hyponatremia – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyponatremia/symptoms-causes/syc-20373711.

 Hyponatremia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments – WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-hyponatremia.

 Hyponatremia – Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyponatremia.

 Hyponatremia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment – Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17762-hyponatremia.

What is the antidiuretic hormone and how does it function?

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is a hormone that regulates water balance in the body by controlling how much water the kidneys reabsorb from the urine. It is produced by the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. It helps to maintain blood pressure, blood volume, and tissue water content by reducing the amount of water lost in the urine. It acts on the collecting ducts of the kidney, making them more permeable to water.

The secretion of ADH is influenced by various factors, such as:

  • Blood volume and pressure: A decrease in blood volume or pressure, such as during dehydration or bleeding, stimulates ADH release to conserve water and increase blood pressure.
  • Blood osmolality: The concentration of solutes (such as sodium) in the blood affects the movement of water across cell membranes. A high blood osmolality, such as during salt intake or water loss, stimulates ADH release to dilute the blood and prevent cellular dehydration.
  • Thirst: A sensation of thirst signals the need for water intake and stimulates ADH release to reduce urine output until water is consumed.

– Stress: Physical or emotional stress activates the nervous system and triggers ADH release to cope with potential fluid loss or injury.

The function of ADH can be impaired by various conditions, such as:

  • Diabetes insipidus: A disorder characterized by low ADH levels or reduced kidney response to ADH, resulting in excessive urine production and dehydration. It can be caused by genetic defects, brain damage, kidney disease, or certain medications.
  • Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH): A disorder characterized by high ADH levels or increased kidney sensitivity to ADH, resulting in water retention and low blood sodium levels. It can be caused by brain tumors, infections, lung diseases, medications, or other factors.

References:

¹: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-to-know-about-antidiuretic-hormone-adh

²: https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/anti-diuretic-hormone

³: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes-insipidus/symptoms-causes/syc-20351269

 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/siadh/symptoms-causes/syc-20355513

 What to Know About Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) – WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-to-know-about-antidiuretic-hormone-adh.

 Anti-diuretic hormone | You and Your Hormones from the Society for…. https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/anti-diuretic-hormone/.

 What is Antidiuretic Hormone? – Definition & Function. https://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-antidiuretic-hormone-definition-function.html.

What is SIADH, what causes it what are the symptoms and how can it be treated?

SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion) is a condition where the brain’s hypothalamus produces too much antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which controls how the body releases and conserves water. This causes the kidneys to retain water and lowers the levels of electrolytes, such as sodium, in the blood.

Some of the possible causes of SIADH are:

  • Brain disorders: Such as tumors, infections, injuries, or surgeries that affect the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.
  • Lung diseases: Such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, asthma, or lung cancer that can stimulate ADH production or release.
  • Cancers: Especially small-cell lung cancer, but also other types of cancer that can produce ADH-like substances.
  • Medications: Such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, painkillers, chemotherapy drugs, or diuretics that can interfere with ADH regulation or action.
  • Genetics: Some rare inherited mutations that affect ADH synthesis or function.

Some of the possible symptoms of SIADH are:

  • Hyponatremia: Low blood sodium levels that can cause nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, muscle cramps, confusion, seizures, or coma.
  • Concentrated urine: Dark and low-volume urine due to water retention and reduced urine output.
  • Euvolemic state: Normal blood volume and pressure despite water retention and dilution.

The diagnosis of SIADH is based on:

  • Blood tests: To measure serum sodium, osmolality (concentration of solutes), and electrolytes.
  • Urine tests: To measure urine sodium, osmolality, and volume.
  • Other tests: To identify the underlying cause of SIADH, such as chest X-ray, CT scan, MRI scan, or biopsy.

The treatment of SIADH depends on:

  1. The severity of hyponatremia and its symptoms.
  2. The underlying cause of SIADH and its prognosis.
  3. The patient’s preferences and goals of care.

Some of the possible treatments for SIADH are:

  • Fluid restriction: Limiting fluid intake to less than urine output to increase serum sodium levels gradually.
  • Medications: Drugs that block the effect of ADH on the kidneys (such as conivaptan or tolvaptan) or increase urine sodium excretion (such as urea or salt tablets) to correct hyponatremia.
  • Hypertonic saline: A concentrated salt solution given intravenously to rapidly increase serum sodium levels in severe cases of hyponatremia with neurological symptoms. This requires close monitoring to avoid overcorrection and complications.
  • Treating the underlying cause: Addressing the medical condition or medication that is causing SIADH with appropriate therapies or discontinuation.

References:

¹: https://www.healthline.com/health/syndrome-of-inappropriate-antidiuretic-hormone

²: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23976-siadh-syndrome-of-inappropriate-antidiuretic-hormone-secretion

  Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH) – Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/syndrome-of-inappropriate-antidiuretic-hormone.

 What is SIADH? Causes, symptoms, and what you need to know – WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-siadh.

 SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23976-siadh-syndrome-of-inappropriate-antidiuretic-hormone-secretion.

 What Causes SIADH? – MedicineNet. https://www.medicinenet.com/what_causes_siadh/article.htm.

Explain vasodilatory effects

Vasodilatory effects are the effects of widening or opening the blood vessels. Vasodilation can result from the relaxation of the smooth muscle cells that line the walls of the blood vessels, especially the arteries and arterioles. Vasodilation can increase blood flow, decrease blood pressure, and improve oxygen and nutrient delivery to the tissues.

Some factors that can cause vasodilation are:

  • Heat: Exposure to heat can cause vasodilation of the skin blood vessels to dissipate heat and cool the body.
  • Exercise: Physical activity can cause vasodilation of the skeletal muscle blood vessels to increase blood flow and oxygen delivery to the working muscles.
  • Inflammation: Injury or infection can cause vasodilation of the blood vessels at the site of inflammation to increase blood flow and immune cell migration to the affected area.
  • Nitric oxide: Nitric oxide is a gas molecule that is produced by various cells in the body and acts as a vasodilator by activating a chemical pathway that relaxes the smooth muscle cells of the blood vessels.
  • Hormones: Some hormones, such as histamine, prostaglandins, bradykinin, and angiotensin II, can cause vasodilation by binding to specific receptors on the blood vessel walls and triggering intracellular signals that lead to smooth muscle relaxation.

Some drugs that can cause vasodilation are:

  • Vasodilators: These are drugs that directly or indirectly affect the smooth muscle cells of the blood vessels and cause them to relax. Examples include nitroglycerin, hydralazine, minoxidil, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, and nitrates.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol can cause vasodilation by inhibiting an enzyme that degrades nitric oxide, leading to increased levels of nitric oxide and smooth muscle relaxation. Alcohol can also affect other hormones and neurotransmitters that regulate blood vessel tone.

There are some supplements or herbs that may help improve the vasodilatory effects and increase blood flow. However, you should always consult your pH4Life consultant before taking any supplements or herbs. Some of the supplements or herbs that may help improve the vasodilatory effects are:

  • Cocoa: Cocoa is a source of flavonoids, which are plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Flavonoids can help stimulate the production of nitric oxide, which is a gas molecule that relaxes and widens the blood vessels.
  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is a substance that is naturally produced by the body and involved in energy production and antioxidant defense. CoQ10 may help improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing the effects of some blood pressure medications.
  • Garlic: Garlic is a herb that contains allicin, a compound that has antibacterial, antioxidant, and antihypertensive effects. Allicin may help lower blood pressure by relaxing and dilating the blood vessels, reducing cholesterol, and preventing plaque formation.
  • L-arginine: L-arginine is an amino acid that is a precursor of nitric oxide. L-arginine may help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure by increasing nitric oxide production and availability in the blood vessels.
  • Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in many body functions, including nerve and muscle function, blood sugar regulation, and blood pressure control. Magnesium may help lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing stress.
  • Niacin (vitamin B3): Niacin is a vitamin that helps convert food into energy and supports various cellular functions. Niacin may help lower blood pressure by improving cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and increasing nitric oxide production.

References:

¹: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cocoa-flavanols

²: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coq10-and-blood-pressure

³: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/garlic-and-blood-pressure

: https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/arginine-supplements

: https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/magnesium-for-high-blood-pressure

: https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/niacin-for-high-blood-pressure

Source: Conversation with Bing, 2023/05/15

12 Proven Vasodilator Herbs – Healthy Focus. https://healthyfocus.org/vasodilator-herbs/.

The 14 Best Foods to Increase Blood Flow and Circulation – Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-that-increase-blood-flow.

Vasodilators: Types and Side Effects – Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23207-vasodilators.

References:

¹: https://www.healthline.com/health/vasodilation

²: https://www.britannica.com/science/vasodilation

³: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2953417/

: https://www.cvphysiology.com/Blood%20Pressure/BP015

: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23207-vasodilators

: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326751

Source: Conversation with Bing, 2023/05/15

Vasodilators: Types and Side Effects – Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23207-vasodilators.

Vasodilation – Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasodilation.

Vasodilators: Types, Administration, Side Effects – Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/vasodilators-5267952.

What To Prescribe

  • Citrus juices and zest: You can use lemon juice or zest, lime juice or zest, or orange juice or zest to add a tangy and refreshing taste to your dishes. Citrus also helps enhance the flavors of other ingredients and provides vitamin C and antioxidants.
  • Cocoa: Cocoa is a source of flavonoids, which are plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Flavonoids can help stimulate the production of nitric oxide, which is a gas molecule that relaxes and widens the blood vessels.
  • Coconut aminos: You can use coconut aminos as a low-sodium substitute for soy sauce. Coconut aminos are made from coconut sap and sea salt and have a sweet and savory flavour. They also contain amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein.
  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is a substance that is naturally produced by the body and involved in energy production and antioxidant defense. CoQ10 may help improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing the effects of some blood pressure medications.
  • Garlic: Garlic is a herb that contains allicin, a compound that has antibacterial, antioxidant, and antihypertensive effects. Allicin may help lower blood pressure by relaxing and dilating the blood vessels, reducing cholesterol, and preventing plaque formation.
  • L-arginine: L-arginine is an amino acid that is a precursor of nitric oxide. L-arginine may help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure by increasing nitric oxide production and availability in the blood vessels.
  • Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in many body functions, including nerve and muscle function, blood sugar regulation, and blood pressure control. Magnesium may help lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing stress.
  • Niacin (vitamin B3): Niacin is a vitamin that helps convert food into energy and supports various cellular functions. Niacin may help lower blood pressure by improving cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and increasing nitric oxide production.
  • Nutritional yeast: You can use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy and nutty flavor to your food. Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that is rich in protein, fiber, B vitamins, and minerals. It also contains beta glucan, a type of fiber that may help lower cholesterol levels.
  • Potassium: Potassium is a mineral that helps balance the levels of sodium and fluid in the body. Potassium may help lower blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium, which can cause water retention and increase blood pressure. Potassium also helps regulate the heartbeat and prevent arrhythmias.
  • Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice that contains curcumin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory effects. Curcumin may help lower blood pressure by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, reducing inflammation, and preventing blood clots.
  • Vinegar: You can use vinegar to add acidity and brightness to your food. There are many types of vinegar to choose from, such as balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, and more. Vinegar also helps lower blood sugar levels and improve digestion.

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