The class of beta blocker medications includes those that block epinephrine and norepinephrine from attaching to the beta receptors on the nerves of your blood vessels and heart. Beta blockers are commonly used to reduce blood pressure, lessen anxiety and reduce the heart rate. They are commonly used to treat heart failure, stable angina after a heart attack, and improve some cardiac dysrhythmias. Some doctors prescribe them for the treatment of migraine headaches, anxiety disorders and glaucoma. These drugs are available by prescription and may cause side effects, like stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness and blurry vision. There are fortunately some natural and easy-to-prepare beta blockers you can use to help you if you suffer from depression or anxiety.
Natural Beta Blockers
1. Bananas
Bananas have properties similar to beta blockers. They are high in potassium which helps remove sodium from the bloodstream to reduce the amount of blood in your system and your blood pressure. In this way, you can also reduce your stress and anxiety levels.
Bananas also contain tryptophan that can transform into serotonin, a brain neurochemical that can help improve your mood. There is also vitamin B in bananas, which help to soothe nervous system in the body.
2. Pomegranates
Pomegranate juice has been found in some research studies to be an excellent source of antioxidants, more so than in red wine and green tea. It acts as one of the natural beta blockers by producing an amino acid known as GABA. GABA is a natural tranquilizer that helps those with high blood pressure, seizure disorders and anxiety. Pomegranates are also good for fighting cancer and promoting blood circulation. It improves digestion and heart health.
3. Passionflower
This works as one of the natural beta blockers that relaxes the body and helps in the management of tension, stress, insomnia, as well as heart and blood pressure conditions. It is also used as a capsule or tincture in order to reduce pain and relax your muscles.
4. Chamomile Tea
This tea is high in antioxidants and helps relax muscles to aid your sleep. It contains antioxidants that fight oxygen free radicals to reduce your stress and anxiety, and lower your blood pressure.
5. Turkey
Turkey is high in protein so that it can provide relief from anxiety. It is also high in vitamin B which helps keep blood sugar steady and relieve pressure on the nervous system. Selenium in turkey can act as an antioxidant, which can also reduce bodily stress and prevent cancers.
6. Potatoes
Potatoes that are not fried are actually quite good for you. They contain antioxidants and potassium, which helps fight high blood pressure. Potatoes are also high in vitamin B6 which acts along with bodily enzymes to produce red blood cells and chemicals necessary for the health of the nerves.
7. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is high in lignans which help protect the body against heart disease and cancer. Our intestinal bacteria can convert oatmeal into mammalian lignans to protect the hormones of the body. The antioxidants within oatmeal are beneficial for the heart and the immune system.
8. Broccoli
Never miss broccoli if you want to find the best natural beta blocker. It contains a lot of potassium that helps the brain and nervous system function well. Its high calcium and magnesium stimulates muscle growth and helps regulate the blood pressure. Broccoli is high in lutein, which is a carotenoid that keeps you from developing hardening of the arteries. What's more, this also helps prevent strokes and heart disease.
9. Valerian Root
Valerian root is often taken as a bed time tea and has been used for centuries, but you should first talk to an herbalist or doctor before taking it. It is used to alleviate insomnia or improve the quality of sleep, reduce stress, combat anxiety and soothe heart problems.
10. Tuna
Tuna is an excellent source of protein, containing 23 grams of protein per serving. It has been known to reduce the risk of strokes if you eat enough of it. It is also helpful in combating obesity, certain types of cancers and high blood pressure. Tuna is also high in B vitamins so that it gives energy, improves immune system and increases red blood cell amount.