Q. I need your advice about lowering my blood pressure. My family doctor does not seem to be interested in any remedies other than the prescription drugs. While I’m sure these drugs have their place, I want to exhaust the natural remedies first.
I am a 61-year-old male in very good health. My LDL cholesterol is 111 and my total cholesterol is 176. My doctor is happy with those numbers but unhappy with my HDL which he says is too low at 34. My triglycerides are a bit high at 157.
My blood pressure varies greatly, from 142/86 to 170/100. What can you tell me about natural approaches to controlling blood pressure and triglycerides?
A. Our brand new book from National Geographic, The People’s Pharmacy Quick and Handy Home Remedies, has hundreds of food and home remedies for common ailments from allergies and arthritis to sinusitis and warts.
Some of the approaches we share for high blood pressure include foods like beets and chocolate to spices like garlic and turmeric. Grapeseed extract may also be helpful. Fish oil and a low-carb diet can lower triglycerides and raise good HDL cholesterol.
The book will give you guidance on particular foods that are to be avoided on a low-carbohydrate diet and those vegetables that are desirable. You will also get the details of the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) Diet, which has been shown to lower blood pressure about as well as many medications.
To learn more about our new book from National Geographic, click HERE.
