What is the interaction between beets gummies and Hypertension (HTN) medication, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, or calcium channel blockers?

From the Guidelines

Beet gummies can interact with hypertension medications, so it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider before combining them, as the interaction may lead to hypotension, particularly when taken with diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or calcium channel blockers 1. When considering the use of beet gummies with hypertension medications, it is essential to understand the potential interaction between these substances. Beet gummies contain nitrates that naturally lower blood pressure by promoting vasodilation, which could potentially enhance the effects of antihypertensive medications.

Key Considerations

• The combined blood pressure-lowering effect of beet gummies and hypertension medications might cause hypotension in some individuals, manifesting as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, particularly when standing up quickly 1.
• If you're already on blood pressure medication, it is recommended to start with a low dose of beet gummies (typically 500mg once daily) and monitor your blood pressure regularly 1.
• The interaction occurs because both substances work through complementary mechanisms - hypertension medications target various pathways to reduce blood pressure, while beet-derived nitrates convert to nitric oxide in the body, relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow.

Hypertension Medications and Potential Interactions

• Diuretics (like hydrochlorothiazide or furosemide): may increase the risk of hypotension when combined with beet gummies 1.
• Beta-blockers (such as metoprolol or atenolol): may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect of beet gummies, increasing the risk of hypotension 1.
• ACE inhibitors (like lisinopril or enalapril): may interact with beet gummies to increase the risk of hypotension, particularly in patients with renal impairment 1.
• Calcium channel blockers (such as amlodipine or diltiazem): may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect of beet gummies, increasing the risk of hypotension 1.

Recommendations

• Consult your healthcare provider before combining beet gummies with hypertension medications 1.
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly when taking beet gummies with hypertension medications 1.
• Start with a low dose of beet gummies (typically 500mg once daily) and adjust as needed under medical supervision 1.

From the Research

Interaction between Beets Gummies and HTN Medication

The interaction between beets gummies and Hypertension (HTN) medication is a complex topic that requires examination of various studies.

• Beets gummies contain nitrates, which can lower blood pressure, and may interact with certain HTN medications, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, or calcium channel blockers.
• A study published in 2022 2 found that nitrate derived from beetroot juice lowers blood pressure in patients with arterial hypertension, which may have implications for patients taking HTN medication.
• Another study from 2016 3 found that raw beet juice had greater antihypertensive effects compared to cooked beet, and improved endothelial function and systemic inflammation.

Effects of HTN Medications on Beets Gummies Interaction

Different HTN medications may have varying effects on the interaction with beets gummies:

• Diuretics: A study from 1996 4 found that a diuretic is more effective than a beta-blocker in hypertensive patients not controlled on amlodipine and lisinopril, which may indicate a potential interaction with beets gummies.
• Beta-blockers: A study from 2001 5 found that replacement of ACE inhibitors and metoprolol with ACE inhibitors and lercanidipine does not appreciably influence metabolic control and does not cause rebound hypertension.
• ACE inhibitors: A study from 2016 6 found that ACE inhibitors did not increase serum uric acid levels, which may be relevant to patients taking beets gummies.
• Calcium channel blockers: The same study from 2016 6 found that calcium channel blockers did not increase serum uric acid levels, which may indicate a safe interaction with beets gummies.

Key Findings

• Beets gummies may lower blood pressure and interact with certain HTN medications.
• Different HTN medications may have varying effects on the interaction with beets gummies.
• More research is needed to fully understand the interaction between beets gummies and HTN medication.