Are there natural alternatives to beta-blockers?

Be still my beating heart.

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Today's Ingredients Beta-blockers are prescribed to slow the heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and quell anxiety. They're serious medicine and they do a wonderful job for many people, but they do have side effects. Today, we'll look at some natural alternatives you can add to your diet that have a similar — though usually less potent — effect, particularly for people who aren't already prescribed beta blockers by their doctor. But first, a little more detail on this medication:   • How beta-blockers can help people with anxiety   • Should you change what you eat if you're taking them?   • Taking them may not reduce the risk of another heart attack Bon appétit, Tim Snaith Newsletter Editor, Healthline   Written by Tim Snaith October 26, 2023 • 3 min read Main Course Beyond beta blockers: Natural alternatives for heart health Beta-blockers were first approved in the 1960s and proved safe, inexpensive, and effective at treating heart-related conditions such as high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and irregular heartbeat. Since they affect beta-receptors throughout the body, they have also been prescribed for migraine, glaucoma, and anxiety. There are many beta-blockers, and each one works in a slightly different way. In some people, they may cause side effects like fatigue, poor circulation, breathing issues, and gastrointestinal problems. That's why doctors consider many factors (side effect risks, the condition they're meant to treat, and more) when deciding which to prescribe. Some natural alternatives can provide similar cardiovascular benefits with fewer risks. Amino acids, herbs, minerals, and omega-3s can all help gently calm the heart and blood vessels. For example, the amino acid L-arginine aids production of nitric oxide, which signals blood vessels to relax. This can result in a slight decrease in blood pressure. Minerals like potassium and magnesium also play a critical role in blood pressure. Potassium helps lower blood pressure by preventing blood vessel constriction, while magnesium is involved in regulating healthy heart rhythms and blood flow. Herbs like hawthorn berry, garlic, and barberry have traditionally been used in herbal medicine to support cardiovascular health. Garlic shows particular promise for lowering blood pressure significantly. Omega-3 fatty acids deliver anti-inflammatory effects to promote heart health. A review carried out by the American Heart Association (AHA) suggests that consuming around 3 grams per day can lower blood pressure in people with a high risk for cardiovascular disease. The AHA recommends consuming fatty fish like salmon and tuna for their omega-3s. Though they're not replacements for prescription beta-blockers, these evidence-based options can be smart additions for those seeking natural heart benefits, but remember to discuss with a healthcare professional before incorporating anything new. If you want to learn what else you can do to maintain a strong ticker, sign up for our Heart Health Lessons newsletter series! Great finds Share the pressure       Smartheart Digital Blood Pressure Monitor - Adult Wrist Cuff We talked a lot about blood pressure today and you may be curious what yours looks like. Home monitoring is important to help identify changes in your blood pressure over time, and many people find that a wrist cuff is more comfortable to wear than a traditional arm cuff. This one has a nice easy-to-read screen and its memory function can track blood pressure for two people. It can even detect an irregular heart function. Monitors like this used to cost a pretty penny, but this model is only $29.99. Shop now Every product we recommend has gone through Healthline's vetting process. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline is owned by RVO Health.       the takeout What we're digesting 🎃 How to look after your teeth this Halloween. A new report reveals the most dangerous candy for oral health. 🩸 Does chewing nicotine gum increase your blood pressure? It can, but the other benefits may outweigh the risks. 🧠 Surprising link between gut bacteria and Alzheimer's. It could lead to earlier diagnosis and would allow treatments to start sooner. ⚠️ Some acid reflux medication may increase dementia risk. Remember we talked about proton pump inhibitors in here recently? About that… Thank you for reading! Next time, we'll have a lovely salad that features the squeakiest of cheeses. Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we'll see you again soon!   This edition was powered by leftover roast chicken and cherry tomatoes.

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