Lower bp losing weight?

Question
Hi Dr.
My blood pressure was reaching 'high abnormal'  for the last few months so the doctor put me on medication.
One of the pleasant side effects is my weight has actually gone down a bit.
I knew that obesity can lead to hypertension, but is the reverse true-lowering your blood pressure leads to weight loss?
I havent done anything differently in terms of my diet and exercise. If anything I am exercising less because of my new schedule,maybe even eating a little junk food now, being on the run more.
It has always been difficult for me to lose weight,and I have been chubby most of my life in spite of not overeating and being active (honestly-I thought I had a slow metabolism)
My mother was an RN and my blood pressure was high normal as a kid and adolescent,and all through adulthood (my wife is an RN too!).
Seems this could be a big weight loss thing if its true!
Thanks for your thoughts.  

Answer
Without knowing the type of blood pressure medication you are on, it is difficult to know the way the medication is working on you. Some medications are diuretics, in that it can have the body release extra fluid, which is not a true weight loss, but rather fluid loss. Keep in mind that a healthy weight management program includes activity, proper nutrition, low sodium, and overall healthy lifestyle. Thyroid function plays a big part of overall metabolism. Having 2 nurses in the family can offer you assistance as far as proper food intake and low sodium to help maintain normal blood pressure. Pills can never dictate a true healthy blood pressure or weight management program. There is no getting around the true basics of fresh food, exercise, fresh air, and healthy lifestyle.
We are meant to eat for survival. Our culture seems to eat for many other reasons. Unhealthy snack foods are never part of a true weight management program. You will find if you reduce your sodium intake and reduce your weight with exercise and proper nutrition, you may be able to let go of those blood pressure pills that have more side effects than what you have described. Keep a journal of all you eat and how much activity you participate in. You will learn more with your personal research than you can imagine. Read my books to assist you in changing the way you think about food. They can be viewed at
www.nogainnopainbook.com. Best of luck to you, and thanks for sharing.

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