Affiliations 

  • 1 Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Applied Science, Lincoln University College, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Petaling Jaya, 47301, Malaysia
  • 2 Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, 56000, Malaysia
  • 3 Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, 56000, Malaysia
  • 4 Sustainable Nanomaterials & Biopolymer Laboratory, Department of Paediatrics, Center For Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, 602105, India. btanima1987@gmail.com
Curr Nutr Rep, 2025 Jul 02;14(1):90.
PMID: 40593444 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-025-00681-w

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hypertension remains a critical global health issue, affecting nearly half of the adult population worldwide. The limitations of conventional pharmacological treatments such as adverse side effects, challenges in adherence, and increasing healthcare costs underscore the need for alternative and complementary approaches. This review aims to discuss recent non-pharmacological strategies, particularly nutraceuticals, as potential solutions for hypertension management. RECENT FINDINGS: Nutraceuticals, including omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, garlic extract, and magnesium, demonstrate promise in regulating blood pressure through mechanisms like endothelial function improvement, oxidative stress reduction, and inflammation control. Evidence from randomized clinical trials (2020– May 2025) highlights modest yet significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure with nutraceutical use, suggesting their complementary role alongside traditional antihypertensive regimens. Functional foods, rich in potassium and magnesium, further support blood pressure control through vascular relaxation and enhanced muscle and nerve function. These interventions offer several advantages, including fewer side effects, improved patient compliance, and cost-effectiveness. While nutraceuticals provide a promising alternative, challenges persist regarding optimal dosing, long-term safety, and efficacy across diverse populations. Future research must focus on addressing these gaps and establishing robust clinical guidelines to integrate nutraceuticals into mainstream hypertension management practices. When combined with other lifestyle interventions, nutraceuticals could present a holistic approach to reducing cardiovascular risks, enhancing the quality of life for hypertensive patients globally.

* Title and MeSH Headings from MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.