Low Blood Pressure
Blood pressure that is lower than normal. For some people it causes no problems, but for others it can lead to dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting, especially when standing up.
⚠ Seek medical attention if:
Fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath, confusion, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, cold clammy pale skin, or black or bloody stools (possible bleeding). Seek urgent medical care, as these can signal a serious cause.
Lifestyle factors
Dehydration, standing up quickly, prolonged standing, hot environments, skipping meals, alcohol, and long periods of bed rest
Nutritional factors
Dehydration and low fluid intake, low sodium in some cases, and skipping meals causing low blood sugar; large carbohydrate-heavy meals can cause a temporary drop
Possible medical causes
Dehydration, blood loss, heart conditions, endocrine problems (such as thyroid or adrenal), severe infection, pregnancy, and medication side effects including blood pressure medicines and diuretics
Next steps
See a GP for frequent dizziness, fainting, or persistently low readings, especially if you take medication. Seek urgent care for fainting with chest pain, breathlessness, or signs of bleeding.
Related nutrients (3)
Folate-deficiency anaemia can contribute to tiredness and light-headedness
Food sources: Spinach (cooked) (~263 mcg folate DFE per cup cooked), Lentils (cooked) (~358 mcg folate DFE per cup cooked), Chestnuts (~20 mcg per 30g), Peanuts (~70 mcg per 30g), Hazelnuts (~35 mcg per 30g), Red beans (adzuki) (~278 mcg per cup cooked), Onion (~15 mcg per 80g), Kidney beans (~230 mcg per cup cooked), Garbanzo beans (chickpeas) (~280 mcg per cup cooked), Avocado (~81 mcg per 100g), Corn (~40 mcg per cup), Seaweed (~18 mcg per 10g dried), Edamame (~480 mcg per cup cooked), Sauerkraut (~12 mcg per 50g), Kimchi (~20 mcg per 50g)
Adequate salt and fluids can help some people with low blood pressure, but only under medical guidance
B12-deficiency anaemia can contribute to dizziness and low blood pressure
Food sources: Eggs (whole, boiled) (2.6 mcg B12 per 2 eggs)
Supplement categories (2)
Relevant only where low blood pressure relates to B12-deficiency anaemia, confirmed by testing
Cautions: Test levels before high-dose supplementation if the underlying cause is unclear
Fluids and electrolytes can help where low blood pressure relates to dehydration; discuss with a professional
Cautions: Caution in kidney disease or conditions requiring fluid or sodium restriction
Related symptoms
Educational information only — not medical advice. This content does not diagnose, treat, or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek professional medical advice for symptoms, supplement use, or health concerns.