What's REALLY Keeping Your Blood Pressure High (& How to Fix It)
Dr. Eric Berg DCPublished on June 21, 2026
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Certain blood pressure medications, particularly thiazide diuretics, can deplete essential minerals like magnesium and potassium, leading to ineffective treatment. Addressing these deficiencies through diet and lifestyle changes may improve blood pressure management significantly.
Key Points
- Thiazide diuretics deplete magnesium and potassium, which are vital for blood pressure regulation.
- Low magnesium levels can lead to constricted arteries and high blood pressure.
- Potassium works as a physiological relaxer and is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
- Insulin resistance from a high-sugar diet can contribute to hypertension.
- Lifestyle changes like a low-carb diet and increasing magnesium and potassium can aid in blood pressure management.
Understanding Why Your Blood Pressure Remains High Despite Medication
Many individuals taking medication to control their blood pressure find themselves frustrated when their numbers remain high. In this article, we will explore why this happens and how certain medications may inadvertently contribute to the problem.
The Role of Medications in Blood Pressure Management
Thiazide diuretics are among the most commonly prescribed blood pressure medications in the United States, taken by over 40 million people. These drugs work by flushing out excess sodium through the kidneys, which lowers blood volume and thus reduces blood pressure. However, an important detail that is often overlooked is that thiazide diuretics also deplete magnesium.
The Importance of Magnesium
Magnesium is a crucial mineral that helps keep smooth muscles in the vascular system relaxed. Shockingly, about 30% of individuals on these diuretics may show low magnesium levels in their blood tests, indicating a significant deficiency. This depletion can lead to constricted arteries, as calcium cannot be effectively pumped out of the cells, ultimately contributing to high blood pressure. Interestingly, magnesium acts as a natural calcium channel blocker, similar to certain medications used for hypertension.
The Connection Between Potassium and Blood Pressure
Thiazide diuretics also deplete potassium, another essential mineral that plays a role in vascular relaxation and kidney protection. The average adult requires about 4,700 mg of potassium daily, but many do not even consume half of this amount. A deficiency in potassium can exacerbate hypertension, especially when combined with low magnesium levels.
Beyond Medication: Lifestyle Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
Insulin resistance, often caused by a diet high in refined sugars and carbohydrates, can lead to hypertension as well. When insulin levels rise, the body struggles to manage glucose, resulting in stiffening arteries and potentially high blood pressure. Transitioning to a low-carb diet has been shown to lower blood pressure significantly.
Holistic Approaches to Managing Blood Pressure
- Ensure adequate magnesium levels through supplementation or dietary sources.
- Increase potassium intake via foods like avocados and leafy greens.
- Consider magnesium glycinate for better absorption.
- Implement a low-carb diet and intermittent fasting to improve insulin sensitivity.
Conclusion
For those struggling with high blood pressure despite medication, it is essential to consider the impact of mineral depletion and lifestyle factors. By addressing magnesium and potassium levels, along with making dietary changes, individuals may find better success in managing their blood pressure.
