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Stress and Heart Health: How Chronic Stress Affects Blood Pressure and What Helps

Your mind and your heart are closely connected.

Quick answer

When you are stressed, the body releases adrenaline and cortisol, which raise heart rate and narrow blood vessels, temporarily increasing blood pressure. Short bursts are normal, but chronic stress keeps these hormones high, which is linked to higher blood pressure, inflammation and unhealthy coping habits such as poor sleep, overeating, smoking and drinking. Regular exercise, slow breathing, meditation, good sleep, time outdoors, social connection, limiting alcohol and caffeine and seeking professional help when needed all support a healthier stress response.

Key takeaways

The connection between stress and the heart is not just a figure of speech. The American Heart Association recognises psychological health as an important part of cardiovascular health.

What stress does to the body

Fight-or-flight

Adrenaline speeds up the heart and narrows blood vessels to prepare you for action.

Cortisol

This hormone raises blood sugar and, when it stays high, is linked with fat gain around the waist and higher blood pressure.

Behaviour

Stress often leads to poor sleep, comfort eating, less exercise, smoking and more alcohol, all of which affect the heart.

8 ways to manage stress

TechniqueHow to start
ExerciseA brisk 30-minute walk
Slow breathing6 breaths per minute for 5 minutes
Meditation10 minutes with an app
SleepConsistent bed and wake times
NatureTime outdoors every day
ConnectionCall or meet a friend
Limit stimulantsLess caffeine and alcohol
Get helpTalk to a counsellor or doctor

Supporting mood and the heart

Saffron has been studied for its support of a balanced mood. Vasoryn includes saffron extract alongside L-citrulline, pine bark, grape skin and L-carnitine, as part of a whole-system approach to heart and vascular wellness.

Get support: if stress, anxiety or low mood are affecting your daily life, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at any time.

Sources

  1. Levine G.N. et al. – "Psychological health, well-being, and the mind-heart-body connection: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association," Circulation, 2021.
  2. American Heart Association – "Stress and heart health."
  3. National Institute of Mental Health – "I'm so stressed out! Fact sheet."

Common questions

Can stress raise blood pressure?

Yes. Stress hormones temporarily raise blood pressure, and chronic stress is linked to higher blood pressure over time.

What is the fastest way to calm stress?

Slow, deep breathing for a few minutes can quickly calm the body.

Is there an ingredient in Vasoryn for mood?

Yes, saffron extract, which supports a balanced mood.

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