You can't avoid stress . . .
Stress is an unavoidable part of modern life, which if left unmanaged has a negative effect upon health. Chronic stress is implicated in the onset or progression of most diseases including heart disease, strokes, auto-immune conditions and digestive problems.
High blood pressure or ‘hypertension’ is commonly caused by stress and can pave the way for acute circulatory problems such as stroke and heart attacks. Research has shown how ongoing stress influences both blood pressure changes and platelet activation, leading to hypertension and an increase in blood platelets, making blood thicker, stickier and more likely to clot. The combination of hypertension and blood clots raises the risk of stroke which occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked by a blood clot.
Managing stress and supporting blood pressure balance go hand in hand and Nature has provided many nutrients to help us do this. CO-Q10 in the active form of ubiquinol has been shown to reduce the need for hypertensive medication – one CO-Q10 trial was so successful half the participants stopped taking their medications altogether!
Magnesium is known as the ‘anti-stress’ mineral for its nourishing effects on the nervous system and also improves the flexibility and tone of blood vessels, enabling them to respond to fluctuations in blood pressure.
Omega-3 oils are renowned for their anti-inflammatory and heart healthy benefits. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) the ‘parent’ of EPA and DHA is known to reduce the risk of heart attacks through reducing inflammation and supporting healthy platelet function. Incorporating flax oil and ground flaxseeds into smoothies, dressings and meals provides excellent amounts of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Stress may be part of life but with the right nutrients you can keep it under control and protect your health.