Q. Does drinking water lower high blood pressure?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Yes, it is possible that drinking water may lower blood pressure. A Cochrane review of randomized controlled trials found that increasing fluid intake (including water) by 1.5 liters per day decreased blood pressure by an average of 2.8/1.9 mm Hg in people with hypertension. The reduction in blood pressure was larger in those who were salt-sensitive and in those who were taking medication for hypertension. Although the reduction in blood pressure was modest, it could be important for people with high blood pressure because even a small reduction in blood pressure can help to prevent heart disease and stroke.
Mild dehydration is a common trigger of high blood pressure, so drinking water can help to lower high blood pressure by restoring hydration levels. Additionally, drinking water has been shown to improve blood vessel function and increase the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach your organs—both of which can help to lower blood pressure.