Trace elements and blood pressure.

Essential trace elements such as zinc, iron, and copper participate in various enzyme reactions directly related to the regulation of blood pressure and indirectly related to generation of oxidative metabolic energy, alterations in blood lipid levels, and alterations in taste acuity. The toxicological action of several heavy metal ions including cadmium, lead, mercury, and thallium can cause hypertension by affecting hormone metabolism, vasoconstriction, and renal tubular function. We conclude, however, that neither deficiencies of essential elements nor the presence of toxic heavy metals are primary causes of hypertension in our population.