Fluctuating Blood Pressure Can Be Bad for the Brain

Paula Gallagher on
Blood pressure can affect many areas of health, including brain health.

A new study has shown that fluctuating blood pressure can increase the risk of dementia and vascular problems in older people. According to the study, short blood pressure (BP) fluctuations within 24 hours as well as over several days or weeks are linked with impaired cognition. Higher systolic BP variations (the top number that measures the pressure in arteries when a heart beats) are also linked with stiffening of the arteries, associated with heart disease.

This isn’t the first time that yo-yoing blood pressure has shown to have an affect on cognitive health. In 2019, this study showed that variability in blood pressure could accelerate Alzheimer's disease.

For many, blood pressure can be controlled with lifestyle choices. In some cases, medications and supplements may be necessary. Always consult with a practitioner before taking anything new.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure

Maintaining healthy blood pressure is within your control. Here are some strategies to help you keep your cardiovascular system in check:

    1. Eat a heart-healthy diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sodium (salt) intake to less than 2,300 mg per day (or even less if recommended by your doctor).

    2. Maintain a healthy weight: Losing excess weight can significantly lower blood pressure. Aim for a balanced, sustainable weight loss plan.

    3. Exercise regularly: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Incorporate activities that you enjoy to make exercise a regular part of your life.

    4. Limit alcohol and caffeine: Drinking alcohol in moderation and consuming caffeine in moderation can help regulate blood pressure.

    5. Manage stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing or yoga. Get enough quality sleep to help your body recover from stress.

    6. Medication, if necessary: If lifestyle changes are insufficient, your healthcare provider may prescribe medication to help control blood pressure.

    7. Regular checkups: Visit your doctor regularly for blood pressure checks and to discuss your overall cardiovascular health. You can also check your blood at home, with a blood pressure monitor.

    8. Take a blood pressure support supplement: There are many nutrients that have been found to encourage healthy blood pressure levels. Pathway Blood Pressure Support combines many of these important herbs, vitamins, and minerals into one great formula. Herbs such as coleus forskohlii and hawthorn are included in this formula for their ability to support healthy circulation. Magnesium and hops are added to aid in the relaxation of the central nervous system. In addition, taurine supports the central nervous system and is thought to be helpful in dealing with anxiety.

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