High blood pressure is a common condition that affects more than 25 percent of all adults in the UK. But you could lower your risk of developing hypertension by simply taking daily calcium supplements, it’s been claimed.

Hypertension puts extra stress on blood vessels and vital organs.

Eating an unhealthy diet or not doing enough regular exercise could be raising your chances of high blood pressure.

But you could lower your chances of developing the condition by taking supplements, scientists have claimed.

One of the most effective remedies for hypertension is calcium supplements, it’s believed.

Calcium plays a direct role in the regulation of sodium in the body, according to nutritionist Dr Sarah Brewer.

The nutrient also protects against blood vessel constriction, which increases blood pressure.

Everyone should aim to eat around 800mg of calcium every day.

But owing to the popularity of low-fat diet plans, calcium deficiency is widespread among the population, she said.

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“Calcium is one of the most effective natural remedies for high blood pressure,” she wrote on her website, MyLowerBloodPressure.com.

“While around 99 percent of absorbed calcium goes straight to your bones, the other one percent plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure, blood clotting, muscle contraction, nerve impulses and energy production.

“Good calcium intakes promote the excretion of excess sodium via the kidneys, and regulate the dilation and contraction of blood vessels.

“There is now growing recognition that low intakes of calcium are associated with high blood pressure and an increased risk of stroke, as well as promoting eye complications involving the retina which can occur in hypertension.”

If you’d prefer not to take supplements, you may choose to add more calcium to your diet by eating certain foods.

Dairy foods, green leafy vegetables and bony fish are all rich in calcium.

But you should avoid adding too much calcium to your diet, as it could lead to stomach pain or diarrhoea.

You should steer clear to taking high-dose calcium supplements, as it could be harmful, warned the NHS.

High blood pressure is often known as ‘the silent killer’, as you may not even know you’re at risk of the condition.

But, some of the earliest symptoms of hypertension include severe headaches and dizziness.

Everyone over 40 years old should check their blood pressure at least once every five years.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist to have your blood pressure checked.

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