High blood pressure, commonly linked to high salt intake, can have deeper underlying causes. While conventional wisdom dictates that a blood pressure reading of 120 over 80 is optimal, experts suggest that this may not be suitable for everyone. Some argue for a personalized approach, considering a systolic pressure of 110 plus half of one’s age and a diastolic pressure below 100 as more accurate targets. Persistent high readings may indicate issues with the liver or kidneys, necessitating deeper investigation.
Dr. Jaban Moore, a functional medicine practitioner, emphasizes insulin resistance as a significant factor often overlooked in discussions about hypertension. Traditional medical guidelines have long encouraged individuals to reduce sodium intake, follow diets like DASH, and rely on medications. However, many who adhere to these recommendations continue to experience high blood pressure, suggesting that other factors, particularly insulin resistance, might need to be addressed.
Insulin plays a crucial role in energy utilization within the body. When cells become resistant to insulin, the pancreas compensates by producing more of it. As insulin levels rise, the body retains more sodium and water, increasing fluid levels in the arteries. This physiological response can lead to tighter and less flexible blood vessel walls, causing sustained hypertension even in the absence of dietary salt.
Moreover, the process of insulin resistance often leads to kidney dysfunction, wherein the kidneys retain sodium and water instead of excreting them, thereby exacerbating blood pressure issues. Additionally, constriction of blood vessels and chronic arterial inflammation create a higher risk of developing heart disease.
Merely treating high blood pressure with medications or dietary changes aimed solely at sodium reduction may address symptoms without tackling their origins. In functional medicine, the focus is shifted toward resolving the root causes, such as insulin resistance, which is crucial for achieving lasting health improvements. Dr. Moore underscores that understanding and addressing metabolic factors related to insulin can facilitate healthier blood pressure levels and contribute to long-term cardiovascular health.
Recognizing that high blood pressure may not stem primarily from salt consumption encourages a broader perspective on managing health. By prioritizing the resolution of insulin resistance, individuals may uncover pathways to sustain healthier blood pressure levels throughout their lives.