How to lower aldosterone naturally?
One of the most effective natural methods of lowering aldosterone is through dietary changes. A balanced and healthy diet can help lower weight and blood pressure. Lower blood pressure, in turn, lowers aldosterone production.
A diet to lower aldosterone naturally includes fresh and unprocessed food with a significantly reduced salt intake. High sodium levels increase water retention, blood pressure, and aldosterone production. That is why salt has to be limited to achieve lower levels of this hormone [1, 2].
A healthy diet should be complemented with regular exercise. Physical activity helps with the reduction of blood pressure. Sports have a similar impact on aldosterone as the reduction of salt. It can decrease aldosterone production by lowering blood pressure [1, 2].
Also, substances that can increase blood pressure should be avoided. Among them are caffeine and alcohol. Alcohol, in particular, can interfere with blood pressure-lowering medication, making the therapy ineffective [1, 2].
You should also quit smoking. Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor, which means it also increases blood pressure, leading to aldosterone production [1, 2].
What is aldosterone?
Aldosterone is a steroid hormone. It is a key compound in the regulation of blood pressure. This steroid hormone is a mineralocorticoid and controls the ionic and water concentrations in the body [3, 4].
The synthesis of aldosterone is controlled via two mechanisms. One is the renin-angiotensin system. In this regulatory process, molecules like renin, angiotensin, and potassium play an important role. The second mechanism that can cause aldosterone production is induction by adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) [5, 6].
Aldosterone’s main function is to control the ion and water balance in the body [7, 8, 9]. It primarily regulates the concentration of sodium and potassium. Via the movement of the first one, water is drawn back or out of the organism [9].
The primary effect of aldosterone is in the kidneys. In this naturally bilateral organ, the hormone induces an ionic exchange. Aldosterone activates the mineralocorticoid receptor, which triggers a cascade. The end effect of the later reactions is the excretion of potassium and the reabsorption of sodium from the urine [10].
However, aldosterone also works in other organs. It also stimulates the absorption of sodium in the large intestine and salivary and sweat glands [11].
Especially with the control of the sodium concentration in the body, aldosterone also regulates blood pressure. Therefore, it plays an important role in cardiovascular health [12].
Aldosterone was also found to play a role in the regulation of inflammation and oxidative stress [9].
What are the normal values of aldosterone?
Normal values of aldosterone can vary depending on the method of measurement and the individual's posture or activity level.
- In a resting state, aldosterone levels can range between 50 pg/ml and 190 pg/ml [16].
- After exercise, aldosterone levels can increase to between 110 pg/ml and 310 pg/ml [16].
- In a study measuring plasma aldosterone concentration, the mean value was found to be 120 pg/ml [17].
- In healthy normotensive subjects, aldosterone levels ranged from 50-950 pmol/L [18].
- In infants, most aldosterone values fell within the adult range of 0-0.15 nmol/l (0-5.4 micrograms/100 ml) [19].
Please note that these values can vary based on the individual's health status, age, and other factors. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Can aldosterone increase naturally?
Yes, aldosterone levels can increase naturally in response to certain physiological conditions and stimuli. A primary trigger for natural aldosterone increases is the position of the body. For example, a study found that simply standing up from the bed can cause a 200% increase in aldosterone [13].
Another natural factor that can increase aldosterone levels is the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This hormone normally stimulates the production of cortisol. However, ACTH also stimulates the production of aldosterone [14].
Furthermore, aldosterone levels can increase in response to angiotensin II. This mechanism is part of the normal aldosterone regulation cycle. However, this natural cycle can be disturbed. Patients with idiopathic hyperaldosteronism exhibit hypersensitivity to angiotensin II stimulation. In their blood will be found high levels of aldosterone, even after minimal stimulation [15].