High blood pressure and oxidative stress are serious risk factors in cardiovascular and other organ diseases. Proof of oxidative stress with subsequent inflammation, is well documented in the medical literature.  This is found in the study of both laboratory animals as well as human subjects.

Cardiologist Thomas E. Levy, M.D. says this:  “Even though traditional medications can control the symptomatic expression of many heart conditions, most do not lessen the oxidative stress that usually accompanies these conditions.  As a result, long term damage and consequences can occur even though symptoms are controlled.”

In other words, the underlying inflammation produced by oxidative stress is still  problematic even with reduced symptoms provided by drugs. The usual effects of electron thievery occurs in oxidative stress.  This causes damage to the mitochondria and chromosomes they contain, increasing risk of permanent damage to the DNA or genetics of the cells.  The ensuing inflammation also invites atherosclerotic plaque accumulation and further damage.

LDL cholesterol and plaque formation attach to inflamed arteries and cause atherosclerosis. This can still proceed in spite of reduced symptoms of high blood pressure, because inflammation is a necessary pre-requisite of atherosclerosis.

Another proof of reduced oxidative damage, relating to high blood pressure, comes when antioxidants like glutathione and vitamins C and E are at optimal levels.  The inflammation is greatly reduced and blood pressure drops.

Glutathione is arguably the most potent resident antioxidant in your body. It defends against toxins and strengthens the immune system against germs that cause disease.  In addition it re-supplies electrons to antioxidant vitamins C and E, the donors for hungry free radicals that cause oxidative damage.  It disarms toxins, fights infection, degenerative diseases and neutralizes foreign substances.

Laboratory studies, providing supplementation with these antioxidants (glutathione raw materials and vitamins C & E) in animals, find a reduction of inflammation and blood pressure.  The same can be said for human subjects.

The bottom line take away is this: If you have high blood pressure…you need to reduce oxidative stress, such as smoking, bad fats and lack of exercise.  Increase good nutrients, especially antioxidants and follow a heart healthy diet like the Mediterranean one.  Especially important for glutathione production are the cruciform vegetables that furnish organic sulfur (broccoli, Brussels’s sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower) …Denis Van Loan D.D.S.

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