StrokeSense : Diagnosis and Treatment

Alternative/Complementary Therapies

Research shows that alternative and complementary therapies, such as relaxation and taking supplements, also can help people lower their risk for stroke.

Ways to Achieve Relaxation

Relaxation exercises can help you manage stress and control your blood pressure.

A recent study conducted at the University of California found that acupuncture appears to lower blood pressure by stimulating the brain to release chemicals known as endorphins. Endorphins help regulate the brain's nerve cells to relax muscles, decrease pain, and reduce panic and anxiety. The results were dramatic; people who received the treatment lowered their systolic blood pressure an average of 15 mm Hg.

Yoga may have similar effects. In a recent study, participants were subjected to 5-minute periods of mental stress followed by various relaxation techniques, including listening to classical music, listening to nature sounds, practicing yoga, or doing nothing at all. Only yoga significantly decreased the time it took for blood pressure to return to normal.

A recent study published in the American Heart Association's journal, Stroke, found that relaxing and reducing stress through transcendental meditation (TM) might reduce artery blockage, a major risk factor for stroke. People practice TM by repeating soothing sounds while meditating to achieve total relaxation. The researchers found that those who practiced TM significantly reduced the thickness of the arterial walls compared with those who didn't practice TM.

The Role of Vitamin/Mineral Supplements

To protect your health, you should eat the proper foods. Studies show that not getting enough potassium, calcium, or magnesium in the foods you eat may cause hypertension (high blood pressure). Eating foods rich in these nutrients can help control blood pressure.

A recent study conducted at the Johns Hopkins University found that the oils in certain fish can lower blood pressure. The researchers reported that omega-3 fatty acids in such cold-water fish as mackerel and salmon might help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension.

Several studies also have cited the role of vitamin C in cardiovascular health. A diet rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, has been found to help protect the heart by preventing blood clots and by improving blood cholesterol levels. Antioxidants neutralize damaging "free radicals," which harm other molecules and damage cells. They also boost immune system function to keep diseases at bay. Experts advise taking between 100 mg and 200 mg of vitamin C per day if you don't get enough from the food you eat.

Alternative/Complementary Therapy Safety

Some complementary therapies help people manage their health. However, others can be dangerous if you try them without your physician's advice. It's a good idea to proceed with caution with any form of complementary therapy.

If you choose to use a complementary therapy that involves a healthcare practitioner, be sure to check out his or her credentials. The best way to choose a complementary therapy practitioner is with the guidance of your physician. Talk to your physician, ask the practitioner the following questions, and insist on getting patient referrals before making an appointment:

• Where and how were you trained?
• How long have you been in practice?
• Are you licensed in your field? If not, what other credentials do you have?
• Have you worked with other patients interested in lowering their risk for stroke?
• Are you willing to work in conjunction with my physician?

References

1. Acupuncture, National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, March 2002.
2. Yoga for a Healthy Heart, American Yoga Association, 2002.
3. Castillo-Richmond, A., et al. Effects of Stress Reduction on Carotid Atherosclerosis in Hypertensive African Americans, Stroke, 31(3):568-573; March 3, 2000.
4. Vitamin C, Fish, and a Gout Drug Target Artery Damage from Smoking, American Heart Association, Jan. 6, 2003.
5. What Else Affects Blood Pressure? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), 2002.
6. Are You Considering Using Complementary and Alternative Medicine? National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, August 2002.

Source of Material: RockHill Communications, 14 Rock Hill Road Bala, Cynwyd, PA 19004, (610) 667-2040,
Writer: Christine Norris
Editors: Erin Murphy, Andrea King, Joanne Poeggel, Ron Wozny
Clinical Reviewer: Patt Panzer, M.D.
Date Written: 4/30/01
Last Revised: 4/3/03