High blood pressure affects about 25 per cent of all UK adults, according to the NHS.
The condition, which is also known as hypertension, could be caused by obesity, eating an unhealthy diet, or by not getting enough sleep.
Having high blood pressure puts extra stress on your blood vessels and vital organs.
It also increases your risk of some life-threatening conditions, including heart disease and stroke.
But, you could lower your risk of high blood pressure by taking potassium supplements, it’s been claimed.
Taking potassium supplements could lower your risk of high blood pressure, according to nutritionist Dr Sarah Brewer.
The nutrient helps to flush excess sodium out of the body via the kidneys, said Brewer.
“The main blood pressure lowering effect of potassium occurs within the kidneys,” said Brewer, on her website MyLowerBloodPressure.com.
“Your kidneys filter excess fluid, water-soluble toxins and salts such as sodium and potassium from the blood to produce urine.
“The sodium-potassium pumps capture any passing potassium ions within the filtered fluid, and pull them inside cells in exchange for sodium.“
“The rising sodium concentration within the urine produces a powerful osmotic effect, attracting water and retaining it within the filtered fluid rather than being reabsorbed back into the body.
“This reduces fluid retention and helps to reduce hypertension and maintain a normal blood pressure.”
If you decide to take potassium supplements to lower your blood pressure, you shouldn’t take any more than 3,700mg a day.
But, most supplements contain much lower levels – mainly around 350mg, said Brewer.
You shouldn’t take potassium supplements if you’re taking ACE inhibitors, or if you have kidney disease.
If you’d rather increase your potassium intake in your diet, the best sources of the nutrient are seafood, whole grains, and some fruits.
Potassium deficiency symptoms include poor appetite, fatigue, weakness, muscle cramps, and constipation.
Regular exercise will also help you to lower your blood pressure, said the NHS.
It keeps your heart and blood vessels in good condition, while also helping you to lose weight.
Every UK adult should aim for about 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every week.
