​Avoid these supplements if you have high blood pressure

An estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30–79 years worldwide have high blood pressure. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, happens when the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels is too high.
It is the leading cause of serious cardiac problems, including heart attack and stroke. For those managing this condition, lifestyle changes and medications are often key. However, certain dietary supplements can interfere with blood pressure control, potentially worsening the condition. Here are five supplements you must avoid if you have high blood pressure.



Bitter Orange

Bitter Orange extract, a dietary supplement used for weight loss and sports performance, may not be suitable for people with hypertension. This is because it contains synephrine, a compound similar to ephedrine, which acts as a stimulant. It can raise blood pressure and trigger dangerous heart rhythms. In people dealing with hypertension, this supplement may raise the likelihood of serious complications like heart attack and stroke.

Licorice root

Licorice root, commonly used for digestive issues or as a sweetener, is another supplement people with hypertension must keep at bay. This supplement contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can raise blood pressure. According to a 2017 study, glycyrrhizin reduces potassium levels and increases sodium retention, leading to elevated blood pressure. For individuals with hypertension, even small amounts of this in tea or supplements can pose risks.

Caffeine-containing supplements

People with hypertension should stay away from caffeine. No, caffeine isn’t just in your morning coffee or afternoon tea. It’s also a common ingredient in many in energy-boosting supplements. Such supplements can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure. Though the increase is around 2 mmHg, which may seem small, it can be significant for people already at risk. Checking the label of your supplements is crucial, as it can put people with hypertension at greater risk. In addition to supplements, caffeine can also be found in sodas, chocolate, and certain over-the-counter medications like pain relievers and cold remedies. These hidden sources of caffeine may go unnoticed and contribute to your daily intake without you realizing it. Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor, which means that it decreases the size of blood vessels. This can lead to high blood pressure. Caffeine effects by interacting with different receptors in the brain.

Yohimbine

Yohimbe, derived from the bark of an African tree, is marketed for erectile dysfunction and weight loss. However, it acts as a stimulant that can spike blood pressure and heart rate. Hence, supplements with Yohimbe is not ideal for people with high blood pressure. This compound can increase blood pressure by raising the levels of a hormone and messenger called norepinephrine. When norepinephrine levels rise, blood vessels start to narrow, impairing blood flow and leading to higher blood pressure.

Ephedra

Ephedra, which was once popular in weight-loss supplements, is a stimulant that can significantly increase blood pressure. The Food and Drug Administration banned ephedra in 2004 due to cardiovascular risks, but it still appears in some herbal products marketed as ‘natural’ energy boosters. The ephedrine alkaloids found in it act as a strong stimulant and are linked to high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, and even sudden death. Though it's banned in supplements, its active ingredient, ephedrine, is still found in some asthma and allergy medications, so it’s crucial to check labels and consult a healthcare provider.


Remember, before starting any supplement, you should consult your healthcare provider. Supplements can interact with medications and lead to undesirable results. So, it's important to talk to your doctor before taking any. Also, your doctor can guide you on the supplements you really need, based on your age, health, and medical conditions if any.