Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is a condition that often goes overlooked in the shadow of its more commonly discussed counterpart, high blood pressure. However, chronically low blood pressure can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms and potentially serious health issues. In this comprehensive article, we'll explore the causes of low blood pressure, its symptoms, and natural approaches to managing this condition from a functional medicine perspective.

What is Low Blood Pressure?

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, occurs when blood pressure readings consistently fall below 90/60 mmHg. While often overshadowed by hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension can produce a host of uncomfortable symptoms and may signal deeper imbalances within the body.

Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:

• Systolic pressure: Pressure in your arteries during a heartbeat

• Diastolic pressure: Pressure between beats when the heart is resting

An optimal reading is typically 120/80 mmHg. When numbers dip too low, it can impair circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs—especially the brain.

Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure

Not everyone with low blood pressure experiences symptoms. However, when symptoms do arise, they often include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Fainting or near-fainting (syncope)

• Fatigue or brain fog

• Blurred vision

• Cold hands and feet

• Rapid, shallow breathing

• Nausea

• Lack of concentration

• Depression or apathy

• Orthostatic hypotension (dizziness upon standing)

If these symptoms persist, it's crucial to investigate the underlying cause.

Common Causes of Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure is multifactorial. Some of the most common root causes include:

1. Adrenal Dysfunction

The adrenal glands regulate blood pressure by producing hormones like cortisol and aldosterone. Chronic stress, nutrient deficiencies, or poor sleep can lead to adrenal fatigue, which often contributes to low BP.

2. Dehydration & Electrolyte Imbalances

Low fluid intake, excessive sweating, or inadequate sodium intake can lead to decreased blood volume and a drop in blood pressure.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies

Insufficient B12, folate, and iron can reduce oxygen-carrying capacity and lead to symptoms of hypotension.

4. Endocrine Disorders

Conditions like hypothyroidism, Addison’s disease, and diabetes disrupt hormonal pathways that maintain normal blood pressure.

5. Heart Conditions

Bradycardia (a low heart rate), arrhythmias, or valve disorders can reduce cardiac output and blood pressure.

6. Medications

Diuretics, beta-blockers, alpha-blockers, antidepressants, and sedatives can reduce blood pressure as a side effect.

7. Prolonged Inactivity or Bed Rest

Extended periods of physical inactivity can weaken cardiovascular tone and responsiveness.

8. Pregnancy

In early pregnancy, hormonal changes and increased blood flow demands often result in lower blood pressure.

Functional Medicine Lab Testing for Hypotension

Functional lab testing can help uncover the root causes of low blood pressure. These may include:

• DUTCH Test (for cortisol and adrenal rhythm)

• Comprehensive blood panels (to assess B12, folate, iron, thyroid function, and glucose levels)

• Electrolyte testing (sodium, potassium, magnesium)

• Stool testing (to uncover gut infections affecting nutrient absorption)

Lab testing provides a blueprint for tailoring a holistic and targeted treatment strategy.

Natural Solutions for Low Blood Pressure

Dr. Justin Marchegiani’s functional medicine approach focuses on resolving root causes rather than suppressing symptoms. Here are key strategies to restore healthy blood pressure naturally:

1. Support Adrenal Function

• Use adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, or panax ginseng

• Consider licorice root extract (non-DGL) to enhance aldosterone activity—only under professional supervision

• Prioritize consistent sleep and relaxation routines

2. Rehydrate and Replenish Electrolytes

• Drink half your body weight in ounces of filtered water daily

• Add unrefined sea salt (e.g., Redmond’s Real Salt or Celtic salt) to meals or water

• Use mineral-rich broths or electrolyte powders (without artificial sweeteners)

3. Stabilize Blood Sugar

• Eat a balanced meal every 3–4 hours

• Include quality proteins, healthy fats, and slow-burning carbs

• Avoid refined sugars and excessive caffeine

4. Nourish with Essential Nutrients

• Supplement with methylated B12, folate, and iron (if labs confirm deficiency)

• Eat nutrient-dense foods like grass-fed liver, dark leafy greens, wild-caught salmon, and citrus

• Consider vitamin C to support adrenal and vascular health

5. Address Gut Health

• Test for pathogens, parasites, or bacterial overgrowth

• Rebuild gut lining with L-glutamine, aloe vera, and slippery elm

• Support microbiome balance with targeted probiotics

6. Lifestyle Modifications

• Practice deep breathing, meditation, or yoga

• Incorporate daily movement—even light walking improves circulation

• Get 7–9 hours of sleep per night

7. Postural and Circulatory Support

• Rise slowly from bed or seated positions

• Wear compression stockings if prone to orthostatic symptoms

• Try herbal remedies like ginger, ginkgo biloba, or rosemary tea to enhance blood flow

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

• Repeated fainting or dizziness

• Irregular heart rate

• Chest pain

• Fever with low blood pressure

• Seizures or neurological symptoms

These may indicate a more serious condition like septic shock, cardiac events, or Addisonian crisis.

Linked Health Conditions

Low blood pressure can be a red flag for deeper systemic issues:

• POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome): Often linked with fatigue and rapid heart rate on standing

• Adrenal Fatigue: Frequently coexists with low cortisol and BP

• Estrogen Dominance: May lead to blood vessel dilation and lower BP

• Autoimmune Diseases: Such as Addison’s, which directly impacts adrenal hormone production

Understanding these root contributors allows for proper healing rather than surface-level management.

Call to Action

Don’t settle for vague answers or symptom-suppressing meds. Get to the root cause of your low blood pressure with a functional, whole-body approach.

👨‍⚕️ Schedule a Free Consultation with Dr. Justin Marchegiani
Visit: www.justinhealth.com/free-consult

During your consultation, you'll explore:

• Personalized lab testing strategies

• Functional medicine protocols for adrenal, gut, and nutrient support

• Whether working with Dr. J is right for your health goals

References

1. Whelton PK, et al. (2018). 2017 ACC/AHA/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/AGS/APhA/ASH/ASPC/NMA/PCNA Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults. PubMed

2. Bornstein SR, et al. (2016). Diagnosis and Treatment of Primary Adrenal Insufficiency: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. PubMed

3. Freeman R, et al. (2011). Consensus statement on the definition of orthostatic hypotension. PubMed

4. Holtorf K. (2008). The role of stress and adrenal function in the pathogenesis of fatigue, depression and immune dysfunction. PubMed

5. National Institutes of Health. Low Blood Pressure. NIH.gov