There is an ongoing debate about the role of diet, exercise, alcohol, caffeine, potassium and magnesium supplements, sodium (table) salt and relaxation therapies. Cause and effect can only be established by repeated and methodologically sound randomized controlled trials, supported by evidence of a plausible biological mechanism, particularly when the potential benefit is small. The current article cites the recent research, that provides the scientific proof of principle.
A vast epidemiological literature describes an apparent relationship between raised blood pressure and lifestyle choices and habits. In the first randomized, double-blinded trial of an online behavioral intervention for high blood pressure, participants in web-based lifestyle counseling reduced their systolic blood pressure (the higher number in a blood-pressure reading) by 10 mmHg, compared with a 6 mmHg reduction…
