By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Derived from an episode of The Knowledge Doc.

Imagine taking medication to lower your blood pressure, only to find that it’s actually depleting the very nutrients your body needs to regulate its blood pressure. This is the shocking reality for millions of Americans who are struggling with high blood pressure. As Dr. Eric Berg D.C. explains in The Knowledge Doc series, the medications prescribed to treat high blood pressure can actually exacerbate the problem by depleting magnesium and potassium, two essential minerals that help to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

The Magnesium Connection

Dr. Eric Berg D.C. notes that thiazide diuretics, the most commonly prescribed blood pressure medication in America, can deplete magnesium levels in the body. ‘If you have low magnesium on a blood test, you are severely deficient,’ he explains. ‘It’s very difficult for a magnesium deficiency to show up in the blood because normally you only have 1% of all the magnesium in your body in that blood.’ This means that even if a blood test doesn’t show a magnesium deficiency, it’s possible that the body is still lacking this essential mineral.

As Dr. Eric Berg D.C. points out, magnesium is a natural calcium channel blocker, which means that it helps to regulate the amount of calcium in the blood vessels. When magnesium levels are low, calcium can build up, leading to high blood pressure. Additionally, magnesium is a natural beta blocker, which means that it helps to lower adrenaline levels and promote relaxation.

The Role of Potassium

Potassium is another essential mineral that plays a critical role in regulating blood pressure. Dr. Eric Berg D.C. notes that potassium helps to balance out sodium in the body, and that a deficiency in potassium can lead to high blood pressure. He recommends increasing potassium intake through diet and supplements, and suggests that taking magnesium and potassium together can have a synergistic effect on blood pressure regulation.

Insulin Resistance and Blood Pressure

Insulin resistance is another factor that can contribute to high blood pressure. When we consume refined sugar and carbohydrates, our bodies produce more insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. However, over time, this can lead to insulin resistance, which can cause blood vessels to become stiff and rigid, leading to high blood pressure. Dr. Eric Berg D.C. notes that reducing insulin resistance through diet and lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on blood pressure regulation.

Taking Control of Your Blood Pressure

So what can you do to take control of your blood pressure? Dr. Eric Berg D.C. recommends testing your magnesium levels using a red blood cell magnesium test, and increasing your potassium intake through diet and supplements. He also suggests reducing insulin resistance by eating a low-carb diet and getting regular exercise. By taking these steps, you can help to regulate your blood pressure and improve your overall health.

In conclusion, high blood pressure is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive approach. By understanding the connection between blood pressure medications, magnesium deficiency, and insulin resistance, you can take the first step towards taking control of your health. Remember, it’s not just about treating the symptoms – it’s about addressing the underlying causes of high blood pressure and making lifestyle changes that promote overall wellness.

The full episode of The Knowledge Doc is available on OBBM Network TV.