High Blood Pressure Linked To Alzheimer’s Disease
by Sheila McCormick on March 3rd, 2010
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Uncontrolled high blood pressure may be a significant factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a recent study. Researchers have known for years that some of the precursors to heart disease (high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes) also appear to increase the risk of dementia. The new study confirms this notion and cites scarring known as “white matter lesions” as a major factor. Even slightly elevated blood pressure can damage the blood vessels that nourish white matter, thus interrupting the brain’s intricate cognitive network.
Sixty million Americans suffer from high blood pressure. High blood pressure has been called the “silent killer” because often there are no significant symptoms. Your blood pressure reading is determined by how much blood your heart pumps and how much resistance to the blood flow there is in your arteries.
A person is diagnosed as having high blood pressure when the reading is higher than 140/90. A healthy reading is 120/80 or even a little lower. There are two types of high blood pressure. Primary high blood pressure is the description used to describe high blood pressure with no known underlying cause. Secondary high blood pressure is the term used to describe high blood pressure that occurs as the result of another medical condition or is a side effect of certain medications.
A healthy lifestyle is your best defense against high blood pressure. Maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, eating a nutritious diet and learning to cope with the stressors in life can help keep your blood pressure at optimum levels. If, despite your best efforts, you get high blood pressure you should talk to your holistic practitioner about taking a natural approach to reducing your numbers.
Apple cider vinegar is one of the natural remedies used to treat high blood pressure. The dose will vary from person to person, but most people take a full tablespoon three times a day. Apple cider vinegar is also available in supplement form. Other natural remedies include garlic, folic acid, magnesium and cayenne pepper.
In recent years millions of Americans have turned to yoga as a way to reduce high blood pressure. Because it takes full concentration, yoga is a superior stress reliever. Almost all forms of yoga emphasize deep, long breaths that allow your body to completely relax. Yoga helps to release energetic blockages or “knots” so that emotional layers open and energy flows freely.
To help avoid cardiovascular diseases and to prevent Alzheimer’s have your blood pressure checked regularly and take action, if needed, to reduce it. Keeping your blood pressure within normal ranges can help pave the way for vibrant health for many years to come.
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