HypertensionHypertension (high blood pressure) occurs only in civilized populations, not in "primitive" hunter-gatherer cultures. It appears that this disorder reflects both emotional stress and an imbalance of dietary sodium and potassium. Acupuncture can reduce blood pressure by route of reducing sympathetic nervous system activity arising from mental stress and tension. You can assist this process by incorporating daily practice of quietude in the form of meditation. Herbal medicines can also reduce blood pressure by improving the potassium/sodium ratio. A diet containing too little magnesium and potassium while simultaneously rich in sodium from salt supports elevated blood pressure. An ideal diet will supply at least 4 times as much potassium as sodium, but the typical U.S. diet contains more sodium than potassium. To increase potassium and magnesium, increase your intake of vegetables and fruits.
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