Can Multivitamins Help Lower Blood Pressure in Older Adults?

Nearly 1.4 billion people worldwide had hypertension in 2024, making it the leading risk factor for global deaths. The condition raises the chances of heart attacks, strokes and other serious illnesses. Now, new research suggests multivitamins could play a role in managing blood pressure—especially for those with poor diets.

A study in the American Journal of Hypertension found that daily multivitamins may slightly lower blood pressure in older adults with low-quality diets. Participants with normal blood pressure but poor nutrition saw small but measurable improvements. Researchers noted that nutrients like potassium, magnesium, calcium and fibre—often lacking in unhealthy diets—could help regulate blood pressure when consumed adequately.

In the US and Europe, hypertension rates among older adults have stayed stable or dropped slightly over 20 years. Better screenings, medications like ACE inhibitors, and lifestyle changes (such as quitting smoking) have helped. However, rising obesity continues to offset some progress. Experts stress that modifiable factors—like eating well, staying active, avoiding smoking, managing weight and reducing stress—remain key to preventing high blood pressure. Yet more research is needed to fully understand how diet quality and vitamin supplements interact with blood pressure control.

Hypertension contributes to nearly half of all heart disease and stroke deaths globally. The latest findings highlight potential benefits of multivitamins for those with nutrient gaps. Meanwhile, lifestyle changes and medical treatments remain critical in managing the condition worldwide.