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Articles categorized as Hypertension High Blood Pressure

Article imageJoe Graedon - November 25, 2024
Article imageTerry Graedon - November 21, 2024
Article imageTerry Graedon - December 16, 2024 - 16 comments

Can You Lower Your Blood Pressure with Food?

To lower your blood pressure with food, emphasize vegetables and skip the sweets. Following a DASH diet and eating plenty of garlic (or taking a supplement) can help.

Terry Graedon - November 4, 2024

How to Lower Blood Pressure with Hibiscus Tea

Joe Graedon - October 10, 2024

Seven Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Blood Pressure!

Terry Graedon - October 10, 2024

What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Long COVID?

Joe Graedon - September 30, 2024

Can You Trust Your Blood Pressure Measurements? Taking Accurate Readings Is Harder Than It Seems!

Joe Graedon - September 26, 2024

Can Low Blood Pressure Raise Dementia Risk in Older Adults?”

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Joe Graedon - September 16, 2024

Conflicting Advice About Eggs and Salt Drives Reader Crazy

Many people become upset with conflicting advice on nutrition. Are eggs good or bad? What about salt? Butter vs. margarine?

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Joe Graedon - June 16, 2024

Hydrochlorothiazide Side Effects: Skin Cancer and More!

Few health professionals think hydrochlorothiazide side effects are serious. But a Danish study links HCTZ with squamous cell skin cancer.

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Joe Graedon - May 20, 2024

Medical Mistakes and Deadly Drug Interactions

People don't think they will suffer a medical mistake. Deadly drug interactions seem irrelevant. They are more common than most people think.

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Joe Graedon - April 28, 2024

Why Potassium Chloride Is Not Always a Safe Salt Substitute!

Salt substitutes with potassium chloride can lower blood pressure. But too much potassium can be deadly! Beware ACEis and ARB-type BP drugs!

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Joe Graedon - April 15, 2024

What Are Metoprolol Side Effects When Prescribed for High Blood Pressure?

Beta blockers such as atenolol, metoprolol and propranolol are prescribed for hypertension. Readers ask about metoprolol side effects.

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Joe Graedon - April 14, 2024

Preventing Deadly Drug Interactions Harder Than You Think

Do you swallow 3+ pills daily? Preventing deadly drug interactions is hard, but essential! Prescribers and pharmacists bemoan alert fatigue.

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Terry Graedon - April 10, 2024

Will a Potassium Salt Substitute Lower Your Blood Pressure?

Studies show a potassium salt substitute can lower sodium intake and reduce blood pressure. Could you benefit?

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Joe Graedon - April 10, 2024

How Helpful Are Beta Blockers After Heart Attacks?

A study in the New England Journal of Medicine throws shade on beta blockers after heart attacks. Read about the pros and cons of such drugs.

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Terry Graedon - March 14, 2024

Show 1378: Rediscovering the Power of Medicinal Herbs

Our guests are expert herbalists. They share their knowledge on medicinal herbs to help you stay healthy, from Andrographis to thyme.

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Terry Graedon - March 7, 2024

Tai Chi Helps Blood Pressure Control

A study comparing tai chi practice to aerobic exercise finds better blood pressure control following tai chi training.

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Terry Graedon - February 15, 2024

Salt Substitute Can Cut the Risk of High Blood Pressure

Chinese people using a salt substitute containing some potassium chloride were less likely to have high blood pressure than those using salt.

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Joe Graedon - February 7, 2024

Is New Weight Loss Drug Zepbound Better than Wegovy?

The FDA approved Mounjaro (tirzepatide) 5/13/22 for type 2 diabetes and Zepbound for weight management on 11/8/23. Does it also lower BP?

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Joe Graedon - February 4, 2024

Generic Metoprolol Reveals Flaws With FDA’s Approval Process

We've been hearing about problems with generic metoprolol since 2007. They're still coming in. Is brand name Toprol XL now affordable?

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Terry Graedon - January 24, 2024

Show 1371: America’s Pharmacist Compares Natural Healing and Pharmaceuticals

Suzy Cohen, RPh, is known as America's Most Trusted Pharmacist. She often writes and speaks about the value of natural healing.

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Terry Graedon - January 8, 2024

What Is the Best Time to Eat?

A very small study suggests that morning to midday is the best time to eat for better metabolism and lower blood pressure. Other studies support this approach.

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Terry Graedon - December 18, 2023

Does Grape Juice Have Heart Healthy Benefits?

A reader who has embraced grape juice wonders if its cardiovascular benefits are imaginary. Science says they're real.

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Terry Graedon - November 16, 2023

Does Loneliness Raise Your Risk for Parkinson Disease?

A multi-year study of nearly 500,000 individuals shows that loneliness increases the risk of Parkinson disease significantly.

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Terry Graedon - November 16, 2023

Could Your Pharmacist Help You Control Your Blood Pressure?

According to a new study, if we have your pharmacist help you manage your blood pressure, you save money and stay healthy longer.

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Joe Graedon - November 16, 2023

What’s the Best Way to Measure Blood Pressure?

What's better, blood pressure readings at the doctor's office or at home? A new study will surprise many health professionals. BP strategies!

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Joe Graedon - September 11, 2023

Lisinopril and Angioedema: A Life-Threatening Side Effect

Serious lisinopril side effects can occur after many years. Doctors may miss the diagnosis if lisinopril and angioedema affect the abdomen.

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Terry Graedon - August 17, 2023

Show 1352: Home Tests, Tech and Tools to Improve Your Health

Dr. Alan Greene discusses home tests, tech and tools for health that he likes. Joe and Terry invite listeners to share their own.

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Joe Graedon - July 24, 2023

Amlodipine and Dizziness: How Common is This Side Effect?

Amlodipine is one of the most popular blood pressure meds in the pharmacy. But amlodipine and dizziness is a common complication. What else should you know?

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Terry Graedon - July 3, 2023

Do You Take Olive Oil for Your Blood Pressure?

Could extra virgin olive oil rich in plant phenols be a key to the benefits of the Mediterranean diet? Perhaps we should all take olive oil.

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Joe Graedon - May 4, 2023

Is Your Home Blood Pressure Monitor Up to Snuff?

A study found that not every home blood pressure monitor gives an accurate measurement of blood pressure. 30% were off by 10 points or more.

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Terry Graedon - April 6, 2023

Show 1307: Cocoa Compounds and the COSMOS Trial (Archive)

A rigorously conducted, multi-year experiment with cocoa compounds vs placebo showed that they may reduce cardiovascular mortality.

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Terry Graedon - April 6, 2023

How Positive Relationships Support Your Health

An international study finds that positive relationships are linked to lower stress and heart rate and better blood pressure control.

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Terry Graedon - March 30, 2023

Do Blueberries Help Older People with Memory?

Numerous studies show that anthocyanins in blueberries help lower systolic blood pressure and improve cognitive performance of impaired individuals.

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Terry Graedon - March 6, 2023

Diuretic Blood Pressure Pill Could Send Potassium Way Too Low

The diuretic chlorthalidone taken to control blood pressure drove blood levels of potassium way too low, a risky situation.

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Terry Graedon - February 6, 2023

How Can You Lower Blood Pressure Naturally?

Blood pressure medicines are helpful but they often have side effects. What are the best ways to lower blood pressure naturally?

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Terry Graedon - December 29, 2022

Women Who Eat Mediterranean Diets Improve Pregnancy Outcomes

Women following a Mediterranean type eating pattern around the time of conception and during pregnancy have better pregnancy outcomes.

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Terry Graedon - November 21, 2022

CoQ10 Has Heart Benefits

Readers' reports that the dietary supplement CoQ10 has heart benefits are supported by scientific studies.

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Terry Graedon - October 20, 2022

Can Ashwagandha Help You with Stress and Sleep?

Readers have found that an Indian Ayurvedic herb, ashwagandha, can help ease anxiety, overcome insomnia and relieve joint pain.

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Joe Graedon - August 1, 2022

Natural Approaches or Pharmaceuticals for What Ails You?

Either natural approaches or pharmaceuticals can offer benefit if used with care. Some important drugs are based on plants.

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Joe Graedon - May 23, 2022

New Analysis Disputes Dogma that All Seniors Need Statins

Patients following recommendations from the American College of Cardiology need statins as they get older. That's most men over 64!

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Terry Graedon - April 11, 2022

How to Boost Your Cardiovascular Health with Cocoa Compounds

Cocoa compounds can increase blood vessel flexibility and help them relax. That lowers blood pressure and improves cardiovascular health.

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Terry Graedon - April 4, 2022

Will Drinking Dragon Fruit Juice Improve your Health?

Does dragon fruit juice have health benefits? One study shows it improves blood vessel flexibility, but we need more research.

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Joe Graedon - March 24, 2022

Popular Blood Pressure Pills Under Cancer Cloud

Millions of people take ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers) like losartan and valsartan. Is there a cancer cloud hanging over these drugs?

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Terry Graedon - March 14, 2022

Can Eating Beets Benefit Eyesight as Well as Blood Pressure?

A reader reports the experience that beets benefit eyesight. Medical research has not shown that, but beets do help the heart.

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Joe Graedon - January 24, 2022

Multiple BP Meds leads to Lisinopril and Losartan Risks

Getting blood pressure under 130/80 can be challenging. Taking multiple BP meds is one way. It can also increase the risk for interactions!

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Joe Graedon - December 27, 2021

Will Low Blood Pressure Increase the Danger of Dementia in Older People?

Is low blood pressure always ideal? Many think that 120/80 is ideal. Research shows such low BP may sometimes increase cognitive decline.

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Terry Graedon - December 27, 2021

What Cold Medicine Is Safe for People With High Blood Pressure?

Decongestants can boost blood pressure. People with high blood pressure should look for cold medicine without phenylephrine.

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Terry Graedon - December 9, 2021

How Has Pandemic Stress Affected Your Blood Pressure?

Investigators found a small but significant increase in blood pressure during 2020, possibly due to pandemic stress and how people reacted.

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Joe Graedon - November 15, 2021

Common Medications That Raise Blood Pressure

Are you taking medications that raise blood pressure? You may be surprised to learn that many drugs can do this, including NSAIDs for pain.

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Joe Graedon - October 25, 2021

Lead in Hair Dye Is Finally Coming Out!

Did you know that the FDA has finally banned lead in hair dye after more than 30 years? It has been a struggle, but the lead will disappear!

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Terry Graedon - October 25, 2021

Glaucoma Patients Should Not Take Blood Pressure Pills at Bedtime

If blood pressure drops too low overnight, it can aggravate optic nerve damage. That is the last thing glaucoma patients need!

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Joe Graedon - October 11, 2021

When Should You Take Your BP Pills? Morning or Bedtime?

A reader got better blood pressure control if he took his pills at night instead of in the morning. Should you take your BP pills before bed?

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Joe Graedon - October 4, 2021

Do You Really Have High Blood Pressure?

People who have high blood pressure in the doctor's office may need to confirm that it is sustained throughout the day with home blood pressure measurement.

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Joe Graedon - August 23, 2021

Can You Control Blood Pressure Naturally?

When was the last time you checked your blood pressure? Chances are good that it was over 120/80. If so, your doctor may well encourage you to get it down!

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Terry Graedon - August 16, 2021

Can You Really Control Blood Pressure With Dandelion Extract?

Some readers report that dandelion extract lowers blood pressure without strong side effects. Clinical studies are lacking.

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Terry Graedon - July 29, 2021

Do ACE Inhibitors or ARBs Work Better for Blood Pressure?

When prescribing blood pressure pills, should doctors choose ACE inhibitors or ARBs? ARBs are equally effective with fewer side effects.

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Terry Graedon - December 21, 2020

Will Mouthwash Nix the Benefits of Beets?

Killing off oral bacteria with strong mouthwash could make it much harder to tap the blood pressure benefits of beets.

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Terry Graedon - October 15, 2020

How Your Home Address Affects Your Health

Studying people who moved shows scientists that your home address really does influence depression, blood pressure and diabetes.

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Terry Graedon - September 17, 2020

More Americans Now Have Uncontrolled Hypertension

A new study shows that more than half of Americans with elevated blood pressure have uncontrolled hypertension. Can you lower yours?

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Terry Graedon - September 14, 2020

How Does Baking Soda in Water Fight Swelling?

A dose of baking soda in water signals the spleen to produce anti-inflammatory immune cells. This may help reduce swelling.

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Joe Graedon - June 29, 2020

Blood Pressure Measurements Are Too Important to Leave to Hospitals

Blood pressure measurements seem so simple. Yet you would be amazed how often professionals get this procedure wrong. Stress can lead to elevated readings.

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Terry Graedon - May 28, 2020

Will Blood Pressure Medicines Prevent Alzheimer Disease?

In a new meta-analysis, the investigators found that people taking blood pressure medicines are slightly less likely to develop dementia.

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Terry Graedon - April 27, 2020

Will Blood Pressure Remedy Lead to Kidney Stones?

Scientists confirm that drinking beet juice could be a helpful blood pressure remedy. However, it might increase the risk of kidney stones for some people.

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Joe Graedon - April 23, 2020

Should You Worry About COVID-19 with ACE Inhibitors or ARBs?

People with high BP appear to be at greater risk from the coronavirus. Does that mean people with well-controlled hypertension should worry about COVID-19?

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Joe Graedon - April 6, 2020

Avoid Drug Side Effects by Being Informed!

Does your doctor give you a written list of symptoms to watch out for when she writes a prescription? This is the best way to avoid drug side effects!

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Joe Graedon - March 9, 2020

Your Blood Pressure Will Vary Throughout the Day!

Was your blood pressure measured correctly? What time of day was it taken? What were you doing prior to the reading? Blood pressure can vary dramatically.

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Terry Graedon - March 2, 2020

Do Ginseng Supplements Raise Blood Pressure?

If you plan to take ginseng supplements, be sure to learn what benefits you might expect and what possible side effects you might encounter.

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Terry Graedon - February 24, 2020

Can Ginger Reduce Blood Pressure & Soothe Arthritis?

Are you struggling with hypertension? You may be able to use ginger for a double-duty effect: reduce blood pressure and ease arthritis pain in joints.

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Terry Graedon - February 3, 2020

Using Eggplant to Lower Your Blood Pressure

One reader found that using eggplant for dinner, browned in olive oil with herbs, is a tasty approach to lowering blood pressure. Research confirms this.

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Terry Graedon - January 27, 2020

Can You Lower Your Blood Pressure With Cherries?

Researchers have found that people can lower their blood pressure with cherries, specifically 60 ml of tart cherry concentrate daily.

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Terry Graedon - January 6, 2020

Do You Know How to Take Your Blood Pressure Right?

If you want to lower your risk of heart disease or stroke, you should learn to take your blood pressure accurately. Hypertension is a risk factor.

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Joe Graedon - December 16, 2019

Holiday Blood Pressure Challenges Hard to Manage

This is a stressful time of year. Shopping puts a strain on the budget. Family gatherings can be contentious. That's why holiday blood pressure can soar!

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Joe Graedon - October 28, 2019

ACE Inhibitors Like Lisinopril and Lung Cancer

Tens of millions of people take ACE inhibitors to lower high blood pressure. Is there an association between drugs like lisinopril and lung cancer?

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Joe Graedon - October 17, 2019

Losartan and Suicide? Another ARB (Sartan) Concern

Canadian scientists have found a link between losartan and suicide that also implicates similar drugs such as irbesartan or valsartan.

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Terry Graedon - October 2, 2019

How Herbal Medicines Lower Blood Pressure

Scientists are excited to learn how many herbal medicines lower blood pressure. They activate a potassium channel KCNQ5 that relaxes blood vessels.

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Terry Graedon - September 19, 2019

Home Blood Pressure May Be Better Than Clinic

Home blood pressure measurement predicts complications of hypertension more accurately than clinic measurements.

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Terry Graedon - September 16, 2019

Does Green Tea Interact with Heart Drugs?

How does green tea interact with nadolol? Green tea compounds can lower blood levels of this heart drug, but does not seem to affect metoprolol.

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Joe Graedon - September 12, 2019

Can Mouthwash Increase Blood Pressure? An Unusual Interaction

Antibacterial mouthwash is supposed to kill germs. What if it has an unexpected side effect? Could mouthwash increase blood pressure by killing good germs?

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Joe Graedon - August 12, 2019

Prescriptions on Demand from Online Doctors

Do you ever buy anything online? Would you consider visiting online doctors or prescriptions on demand? Online prescribing and dispensing are expanding.

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Joe Graedon - July 8, 2019

The Beta Blocker Blahs Can Be Debilitating

Beta blockers like atenolol, metoprolol and propranolol used to be very popular BP drugs. But the beta blocker blahs can be problematic. What else works?

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Joe Graedon - June 17, 2019

Generic Furosemide Disappoints | How to Afford Lasix?

Lasix (furosemide) is an absolutely essential medication. It treats excess fluid buildup (edema). But we keep hearing about generic furosemide problems.

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Terry Graedon - June 6, 2019

Can Blueberries Combat Metabolic Syndrome?

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Terry Graedon - May 29, 2019

Can Licorice Lead to a Hypertensive Emergency?

A patient who came to the emergency department in a hypertensive emergency with blood pressure of 196/66 had been drinking licorice tea for a few weeks.

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Terry Graedon - May 16, 2019

Will Eating Your Vegetables Ward Off Heart Failure?

Just one cup of green veggies daily can help. People whose diets most closely approximate the DASH diet guidelines are better able to ward off heart failure as they age.

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Terry Graedon - May 6, 2019

Must You Grind Flaxseed to Get Its Nutritional Benefits?

The scientific consensus is that if you grind flaxseed, you get more of the fiber, lignans and omega-3 fats that make it a healthful food.

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Terry Graedon - April 15, 2019

What Is the Story on Grapefruit Juice and Meds?

The story on grapefruit juice and medicines can be confusing. The interaction is fairly long-lasting, but only certain drugs interact with grapefruit.

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Terry Graedon - April 11, 2019

Show 1160: How Good Is the Evidence for Cutting Salt?

Cutting salt from our diets has been dogma for many years. Yet there is not very much evidence to support the extreme efforts some people make.

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Terry Graedon - April 4, 2019

The Best Way to Lower Your Blood Pressure with Exercise

Research shows that evening is the most effective time to train to lower your blood pressure with exercise. Regularity of workouts also counts!

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Joe Graedon - March 25, 2019

Another ARB Recall Translates into Bad BP Control

Have you lost count of all the blood pressure medicine recalls? Sorry, here is yet another ARB recall. This time it is for losartan from Legacy. Enough!

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Joe Graedon - March 14, 2019

Physicians Finally Fed Up With the FDA and ARB Recalls!

The ARB recalls have generated surprisingly little outrage from physicians and pharmacists. But a perspective in the NEJM reveals that some docs are upset!

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Terry Graedon - February 11, 2019

What Is the Right Dose of Baking Soda?

Do you know the right dose of baking soda to calm your indigestion? Sodium-sensitive people need to be careful not to take too much.

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Terry Graedon - January 31, 2019

Could Aggressive Blood Pressure Control Save Your Brain?

A new study offers hints that aggressive blood pressure control with a goal of 120 for systolic pressure may reduce the chance of mild cognitive impairment.

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Joe Graedon - January 7, 2019

Swollen Ankles from Amlodipine and Swollen Tongue from Lisinopril

Lisinopril and amlodipine are prescribed for hypertension. Side effects are swollen ankles from amlodipine and swollen tongue from lisinopril.

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Joe Graedon - January 3, 2019

Unbelievable! Yet Another Drug Recall | Amlodipine Plus Valsartan

The FDA has issued yet another drug recall because of contamination with a probable cancer causing chemical. It involves amlodipine plus valsartan. Enough!

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Joe Graedon - December 27, 2018

Another Day Another Losartan Recall | Can We Trust the FDA?

Are you one of the millions of people taking an ARB for hypertension like losartan or valsartan? Did you know there's a NEW losartan recall? Are you fed up?

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Joe Graedon - December 20, 2018

Exercise for Blood Pressure Control Is Surprisingly Effective

If your blood pressure is at or above 130/80 you are considered hypertensive. Did you know that exercise for blood pressure control may be as good as drugs?

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Terry Graedon - November 22, 2018

Is Your Blood Pressure Medicine Safe? Valsartan Recall

American generic drug manufacturer Mylan has issued a multi-lot valsartan recall. Check your blood pressure pills to make sure they are not included.

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Joe Graedon - November 12, 2018

Chinese-Made Losartan Recall | More Cancer Concern

First came a valsartan recall because of suspected carcinogen contamination. Then irbesartan was recalled. Now there is a losartan recall. What's going on?

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Joe Graedon - November 12, 2018

Brits Contradict U.S. Experts About Blood Pressure Treatment

Half the American adult population has hypertension (HTN) according to guidelines. Why doesn't blood pressure treatment with meds for mild HTN save lives?

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Joe Graedon - November 1, 2018

The Pros and Cons of Treating Mild Hypertension

How high is your blood pressure? The AHA and ACC say that if it is over 130/80 you have hypertension. Does treating mild hypertension make a difference?

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Joe Graedon - November 1, 2018

ACE Inhibitors and Lung Cancer | Should You Be Concerned?

Millions of people take blood pressure pills like lisinopril every day. They work well, but is there an association between ACE inhibitors and lung cancer?

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Terry Graedon - November 1, 2018

What Does Gum Disease Have to Do With Your Blood Pressure?

Americans with gum disease are more likely to have high blood pressure and less likely to be able to control their hypertension with medication.

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Terry Graedon - September 10, 2018

Searching for a Better Blood Pressure Pill

Millions of people have high blood pressure. A lot of them would like a better blood pressure pill. How can you find out which will work for you?

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Terry Graedon - September 6, 2018

Show 1134: Can You Control Your Blood Pressure Without Drugs?

New guidelines define many more Americans as having high blood pressure. Medications to treat it may have side effects. Can you lower your blood pressure naturally?

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Terry Graedon - August 23, 2018

Helping Your Heart Means Boosting Your Brain

A study of French senior citizens shows that if you do a good job of helping your heart with diet and exercise, you also dramatically lower your likelihood of dementia.

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Joe Graedon - August 16, 2018

Is Salt Good or Bad for Your Health?

Have you tried to cut back on salt? We would not be surprised if you had trouble meeting the AHA guidelines of less than 1.5 g of sodium daily. Should you feel guilty? is salt good or bad for you?

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Joe Graedon - August 9, 2018

What Are Natural Ways to Lower High Blood Pressure?

Is your blood pressure ever over 130/80? If so, you are now labeled hypertensive. Drugs can have side effects. Are there any effective nondrug ways to lower high blood pressure?

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Joe Graedon - August 9, 2018

The Valsartan Recall Disaster Keeps Getting Worse, Not Better

Is the valsartan recall disaster a metaphor for other generic drug problems? Many, if not most, of our generic medicines are now made abroad. They are cheaper, but are they safer?

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Joe Graedon - August 2, 2018

Valsartan Recall Update: How Big Is The Problem?

You have doubtless read about the valsartan recall because of contamination. Could it be the biggest consumer recall in history? Will some people develop cancer as a result?

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Joe Graedon - July 30, 2018

Pharmacist Wouldn’t Take Back Recalled Valsartan BP Med

Who's responsibility is it to take back recalled valsartan? Should patients get a refund for a contaminated drug? What happens when a pharmacist refuses to honor a recall?

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Joe Graedon - July 19, 2018

Worrisome Implications of Valsartan Recall Over Cancer Fears

The valsartan recall over cancer concerns may be turning into a much bigger drug scandal than we imagined. European regulators are reported to believe the problem could date back to 2012.

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Joe Graedon - July 15, 2018

Valsartan Blood Pressure Pills Recalled over Cancer Concerns

Has your doctor prescribed valsartan blood pressure pills to control hypertension? You may want to check to make sure your specific medicine has not been recalled.

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Joe Graedon - July 15, 2018

Antibiotic Plus BP Medicine Led to Deadly Drug Interaction

A deadly drug interaction likely resulted in high levels of potassium and cardiac arrest. There was no mention of an interaction in the death certificate. Hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil.

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Terry Graedon - June 17, 2018

How Much Beet Juice Will Lower Your Blood Pressure?

You can lower your blood pressure with dietary measures. How much beet juice does it take to make a difference for hypertension?

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Joe Graedon - April 19, 2018

What’s the Best Way to Take Blood Pressure Measurements?

A new study compares blood pressure measurements taken in the doctor's office with 24-hour home readings. Find out which is best and why.

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Joe Graedon - April 9, 2018

What Happens When Minor Drug Side Effects Turn Deadly?

Have you ever suffered from minor drug side effects? What is a mild adverse reaction anyway? Is it hair loss? what about a cough? When can seemingly minor symptoms turn deadly?

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Joe Graedon - March 26, 2018

Metoprolol for High Blood Pressure Raised Blood Sugar Levels

Millions of people take metoprolol for high blood pressure. Do they know that many experts doubt the drug is appropriate as a first-line treatment? Can it raise blood sugar?

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Joe Graedon - February 5, 2018

Hydrochlorothiazide Triggers Gout |Cherries to the Rescue!

If you have hypertension there is a better than even chance you are taking a diuretic. HCTZ is the most commonly prescribed. But hydrochlorothiazide triggers gout. The pain can be excruciating.

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Joe Graedon - November 30, 2017

The Best Christmas Present Yet!

The Procrastinator's Challenge is Officially On! There are three days left to take advantage of our big holiday sale. It applies to everything in our store!

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Joe Graedon - November 27, 2017

Doctors Battle Over High Cholesterol and Blood Pressure

Half the population of the United States has high cholesterol and blood pressure according to the official guidelines. Why is this so controversial?

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Terry Graedon - November 13, 2017

Do You Have High Blood Pressure?

New guidelines define high blood pressure as any measurement at or above 130/80. Millions of Americans will meet that criterion.

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Joe Graedon - November 13, 2017

Will You Experience Drug Shortages Because of Hurricane Maria?

Will you or someone you love experience drug shortages because of Hurricane Maria? Meds made in Puerto Rico could be affected. Find out if you're at risk.

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Terry Graedon - September 10, 2017

Will Your Pain Pill Boost Your Blood Pressure?

Do you take an NSAID like ibuprofen or naproxen to ease your stiff joints and control your pain? Could it boost your blood pressure into the danger zone?

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Joe Graedon - August 14, 2017

Low-Salt Food Tastes Blah: How Helpful Is It?

Do you like low-salt food? It is possible to train your taste buds to consume less. Humans have craved salt for millennia. Wars have been fought over salt.

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Joe Graedon - June 19, 2017

How Did Grapefruit Lower Blood Pressure So Fast?

People either love or hate the bitter-sweet taste of grapefruit. Many think this fruit has special health benefits. Will grapefruit lower blood pressure?

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Joe Graedon - June 8, 2017

Are You Cutting Back On Salt? Does It Matter?

Have you been cutting back on salt in the belief that it would be heart healthy? Many people have, but the salt story is complex and controversial.

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Terry Graedon - May 1, 2017

Is It Risky to Reduce Salt in Your Diet?

How much should you reduce salt in your diet? One study shows that people who kept their sodium intake low for years ended up with high blood pressure.

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Joe Graedon - April 17, 2017

Will White Coat Hypertension Make You a Pill Zombie?

Are you sure you have hypertension? Do you react to doctors or nurses with a spike in blood pressure? White coat hypertension is quite common.

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Terry Graedon - April 17, 2017

Did Beet Juice Cause Vertigo by Lowering Blood Pressure?

Could beet juice cause vertigo and other side effects by dropping blood pressure too low, in conjunction with blood pressure pills?

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Terry Graedon - March 16, 2017

What Is the Link Between Blood Pressure and Dementia?

The link between blood pressure and dementia changes with age. Hypertension in midlife increases the risk of cognitive decline, but older people do better with high blood pressure.

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Terry Graedon - February 27, 2017

Can You Solve the Pretzel Mystery?

Here's the mystery: having one pretzel at bedtime resulted in better morning blood pressure. Could this be balancing the reader's need for sodium?

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Terry Graedon - January 30, 2017

What Should You Do to Control Hypertension?

When blood pressure pills cause undesirable side effects, people look for ways to control hypertension without medications.

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Terry Graedon - January 23, 2017

Can You Sidestep White Coat Hypertension with Delay?

To sidestep white-coat hypertension, measure blood pressure at home and change the timing of the blood pressure measurement to the end of the visit.

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Terry Graedon - January 16, 2017

Can You Lower Blood Pressure with Olive Leaf Extract?

Olive leaf extract may offer an alternative to blood pressure medications. There is a possibility that it could cause psychological side effects.

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Joe Graedon - December 26, 2016

Is Your High Blood Pressure Reading due to Bad Measurement Technique?

Was your high blood pressure based on an accurate measurement? It is surprising how frequently something as fundamental as blood pressure is measured wrong.

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Terry Graedon - November 17, 2016

Is Your Blood Pressure High in the Doctor’s Office?

When you find blood pressure high in the doctor's office but not at home, consider your other heart disease risk factors.

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Joe Graedon - September 8, 2016

Can You Trust Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors?

Blood pressure measurement is far more complex than most people realize. Wrist monitors may seem convenient but Italian researchers found big problems.

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Joe Graedon - August 1, 2016

How to Cut Back on Blood Pressure Medications

Lifestyle really can make a huge difference in many conditions, especially hypertension. Losing weight can reduce the need for blood pressure medications.

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Joe Graedon - June 20, 2016

Why Should You Order Your Own Blood Tests?

Many doctors think it is a good thing that patients can monitor blood pressure and blood glucose at home. Should you be able to order your own blood tests?

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Joe Graedon - May 26, 2016

Will a Low Salt Diet Increase Your Risk for A Heart Attack?

Have you ever been told to consume a low salt diet? Public health officials have insisted that everyone should cut back on sodium. Was this advice wrong?

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Joe Graedon - December 28, 2015

Don’t let Blood Pressure Drugs Ruin Quality of Life

Many blood pressure drugs leave patients feeling fatigued, dizzy and depressed. Can hypertension be controlled without making people feel bad?

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Terry Graedon - December 17, 2015

Pomegranate Extract Lowers Blood Pressure in Dialysis Patients

People on dialysis had lower blood pressure after taking pomegranate extract for six months compared to placebo.

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Joe Graedon - September 21, 2015

Lower Blood Pressure Could Save Your Life But at What Cost?

The SPRINT study suggests everyone should get blood pressure below 120. What are the downsides to lower blood pressure? Can blood pressure go too low?

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Joe Graedon - February 16, 2015

Patient Overcomes High Blood Pressure Without Lowering Salt

Recommendations to lower salt to reduce blood pressure and heart disease have little supporting data. Improving potassium levels may be quite helpful.

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Terry Graedon - January 27, 2014

Drinking Hibiscus Tea Can Help Control Blood Pressure

Tasty hibiscus tea seems to have the power to help get elevated blood pressure under control. As a bonus, there don't appear to be bad side effects.

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Terry Graedon - December 30, 2013

New Blood Pressure Guidelines Create Confusion

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Terry Graedon - December 2, 2013

Hibiscus Tea Provides Amazing Blood Pressure Control

Could hibiscus tea fight high BP? One study found that three cups of hibiscus tea daily lowered systolic BP significantly, without unpleasant side effects.

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Joe Graedon - May 16, 2013

Managing Blood Pressure Without Drugs

When a nonagenarian asks about managing blood pressure without drugs, we offer guidelines that anyone can follow for better health.

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Terry Graedon - February 18, 2013

Lisinopril Side Effect Made Her Miserable

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Joe Graedon - February 11, 2013

Does Nose Spray Addiction Boost Blood Pressure?

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Terry Graedon - September 10, 2012

How Low Should Blood Pressure Go?

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Joe Graedon - September 6, 2012

Too Much Licorice Could Be Deadly

Is licorice dangerous? This reader experienced very high blood pressure from too much licorice. Can you enjoy the health benefits from licorice with DGL?

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Terry Graedon - May 28, 2012

Ibuprofen Boosts Blood Pressure

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Terry Graedon - May 24, 2012

Snoring Linked to High Blood Pressure?

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Joe Graedon - February 16, 2012

Will Ginkgo Help Short Term Memory Problems?

Is there any evidence to support the benefit of Ginkgo biloba for memory and cognitive function? Can this herb overcome drugs that interfere with memory?

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Terry Graedon - December 1, 2011

Vitamin D Crucial for Heart Health

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Joe Graedon - April 14, 2011

What To Do About White Coat Hypertension

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Joe Graedon - April 4, 2011

Lemon Water Lowered High Blood Pressure

Drinking lemon water can help with weight loss and other health goals.

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Terry Graedon - January 20, 2011

Blueberries to Prevent High Blood Pressure

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Terry Graedon - April 5, 2010

Pill Triggered Cough from Hell

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Joe Graedon - December 22, 2008

Curry Lowered High Blood Pressure