Although some epidemiologic studies suggest inverse relationships between blood pressure and both calcium and magnesium, it is currently unclear whether increasing dietary intake of either lowers blood pressure. Other dietary adjustments Many dietary approaches to hypertension are still under investigation. Clearly, certain dietary alterations lead to a modification of cholesterol levels and a reduction in cardiac risk. Many studies suggest that fish oil decreases the risk for cardiovascular events. There are two kinds of exercise.
Isotonic exercise is more effective in lowering blood pressure.
It is important to make certain that patients understand the difference between the two types of exercise. Many patients with high blood pressure have coexisting coronary artery disease, which must be controlled before unsupervised exercise can be started. In severe hypertension, medical therapy should be started before endurance training is initiated. The pressor effects of alcohol can lead to increases in blood pressure, even in people who are normotensive. Many people are hypertensive solely because of excessive alcohol intake.