Mailbag: Break Through a Blood Pressure Plateau

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted February 18, 2025

“My high blood pressure is not going down despite eating a healthy diet, not taking any drugs, and no alcohol or smoking! Also, I donate blood, and I’m retired with very little stress.”

-Puzzled

Hi Puzzled,

I get it. It’s particularly puzzling when you’re doing “everything right” to support good heart health and you still end up battling high blood pressure.

However, the truth is, if genetics is the cause, or some other hidden factor, our bodies sometimes need some extra support to bust through a blood pressure plateau.

So, with that in mind, let’s look at some natural approaches that helped my patients get their stubborn blood pressure moving in the right direction again—starting with nutrients that support healthy blood pressure…

Mighty minerals:

• Magnesium regulates heart rhythm and manages blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. I typically recommend -magnesium glycinate, or citrate.
• Potassium regulates heart rhythm and counteracts the effects of sodium. Sweet potatoes, avocados, and coconut water are all excellent sources.
• Calcium supports the heart’s electrical activity and pumping action. You can get it from dairy, collard greens, kale, Bok choy, and almonds (skip the supplements).

Herbal allies:

• Hawthorn—this herb has been used for centuries to support heart health
• Garlic—fresh (crush and let sit for 10 minutes before eating) or aged garlic extract supplements can relax blood vessels to lower blood pressure
• Olive leaf extract—helps naturally relax blood vessels to reduce blood pressure

Circulation-supporting supplements:

• CoQ10—particularly important if you’ve ever taken statin drugs
• Fish oil—always look for a high-quality source with good EPA/DHA levels
• L-arginine—an amino acid that helps produce nitric oxide to relax blood vessels

In addition, some other natural strategies are proven to reduce resistant blood pressure, including……

• Deep breathing exercises: Just 5-10 minutes daily can help activate your parasympathetic nervous system to slow heart rate and increase oxygen exchange.
• Grounding/earthing: Spending time barefoot on natural ground may boost blood flow and reduce blood thickness to improve blood pressure.
• Infrared sauna sessions: Saunas dilate blood vessels and reduce their inner lining to increase circulation and promote healthy blood pressure.
• Acupuncture: This ancient practice can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system to lower heart rate and blood pressure.

One often-overlooked factor for persistent hypertension is hidden food sensitivities. Even healthy foods can raise inflammation and blood pressure in some people.

I always have my own patients keep a detailed food diary to spot any patterns. Then I have them eliminate any potential culprit foods one at a time and track their blood pressure reactions.

Also, remember that the timing of blood pressure readings matters. Taking readings at different times of the day can establish a pattern. Sometimes it’s highest in the morning or after specific activities.

When you’re already doing so many things right, it’s also worth considering a consultation with a naturopathic or functional medicine doctor who can:

• Test for underlying issues like thyroid problems
• Check your mineral levels
• Look for hidden inflammation sources
• Assess your adrenal function

Keep up all those healthy habits—they’re beneficial even if your blood pressure numbers aren’t where you’d like them. Sometimes it just takes finding that one missing puzzle piece!

P.S. Normal blood pressure in FOUR weeks WITHOUT drugs.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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