Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a serious but often silent condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Left uncontrolled, it can lead to life-threatening complications like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage. The good news is that, while medications play a vital role in managing blood pressure, lifestyle changes and functional medicine approaches can help reverse the condition for many people.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension occurs when the force of the blood against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. This increased pressure makes the heart work harder to pump blood, which can damage your arteries over time. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and presented as two numbers: systolic (pressure during heartbeats) and diastolic (pressure between beats). A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg, while readings of 130/80 mmHg or higher indicate hypertension.

Diagnosing Hypertension

Hypertension is often diagnosed through routine blood pressure checks during medical appointments. However, because blood pressure can fluctuate throughout the day, a diagnosis is usually confirmed with multiple readings over time. In some cases, home monitoring or ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (a device that tracks your blood pressure over 24 hours) may be recommended to get an accurate picture.

Conventional Treatment Options

Medications are a cornerstone of managing hypertension, especially for those at higher risk of heart disease or stroke. Common medications include:

• Diuretics (to reduce fluid retention)
• ACE inhibitors (to relax blood vessels)
• Beta-blockers (to reduce heart rate and workload on the heart)
• Calcium channel blockers (to relax blood vessel muscles)

While these medications are often effective, they are not a cure. Rather, they manage the condition and prevent complications. For many, the idea of taking medications for life can feel overwhelming, but these treatments are lifesaving and crucial in preventing severe outcomes in the short term.

Functional Approaches: Can Hypertension Be Reversed?

At Wellness First, we take an integrative approach to hypertension, combining the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle and functional treatments. While medication can control blood pressure, lifestyle changes and natural therapies can address the root causes, giving patients the chance to lower their dependency on drugs. Here’s how:

1. Nutrition & Weight Loss

One of the most effective ways to reverse hypertension is through diet and weight loss. Excess weight puts strain on the heart and raises blood pressure. Eating a nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet that focuses on whole foods can significantly improve heart health. We recommend:

• DASH Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It emphasizes reducing sodium and processed foods.
• Mediterranean Diet: Another heart-healthy option, focused on healthy fats (like olive oil), seafood, nuts, and lots of plant-based foods.
• Reduce Sodium Intake: Excess sodium can lead to water retention, increasing blood pressure. However, we should also consider the role of elevated blood glucose levels, which can cause the body to retain more sodium. High glucose levels often lead to insulin resistance, and as insulin rises, so does sodium retention. Addressing blood sugar imbalances can significantly help manage hypertension beyond simple salt reduction. In addition, we recommend decreasing highly processed foods, which are often loaded with hidden sodium and sugars, and instead opting for whole, single-ingredient foods whenever possible. This approach not only helps lower sodium but also improves overall nutrient intake and blood sugar control.

2. Exercise

Regular physical activity strengthens the heart, allowing it to pump more efficiently, which can lower blood pressure. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, like brisk walking or cycling. Resistance training and flexibility exercises also provide additional cardiovascular benefits.

3. Stress Management

Chronic stress contributes to elevated blood pressure. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can activate your parasympathetic nervous system (the body’s “rest and digest” mode), reducing the stress response. Spending time in nature, engaging in hobbies, and maintaining social connections also support mental and physical well-being.

4. Supplements

While diet should provide most of your nutrients, some supplements can assist in managing hypertension, including:

• Magnesium: Known to relax blood vessels and help regulate blood pressure. Magnesium glycinate is a well-tolerated form.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, omega-3s help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): This antioxidant can improve blood vessel function and reduce oxidative stress.

5. Functional Testing

Sometimes, there are underlying factors driving hypertension, like hormonal imbalances or deficiencies in certain nutrients. At Wellness First, we use functional testing to uncover hidden contributors like elevated cortisol, insulin resistance, or vitamin D deficiency. Addressing these issues can have a profound impact on blood pressure.

Hope for the Future

While medications may be necessary for many patients, they don’t have to be the end of the story. With commitment to lifestyle changes, the right nutritional strategies, and integrative support, many people can reduce or even eliminate their dependence on medication. It’s essential to work with your healthcare team to develop a plan that works for your individual needs and circumstances.

Hypertension doesn’t have to be a life sentence. At Wellness First, our goal is to empower patients to take control of their health and achieve the best possible outcomes through personalized care. If you or a loved one are dealing with high blood pressure, we’re here to help guide you on the path toward better heart health.

We’re proud to serve the communities throughout Palm Beach County, including Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Wellington, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Boynton Beach. Wherever you are, we’re here to support your health journey!

Stay Healthy! – From The Wellness First Team

Danielle DiPiero, DO                 

Yasmany Dominguez, DO

George Christakis, DO

Joey DeSantis, ND, RN