Protocol · Cardiovascular Health
Postural Syncope (Orthostatic Hypotension) Support Protocol
Sodium/Electrolytes and Vitamin B12 are the core of this stack, with 4 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Postural Syncope (Orthostatic Hypotension) Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
6 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Sodium/Electrolytes | Amount listed: Increase dietary sodium to 3–5 g daily with 2–3 L fluids; electrolyte beverages | Increases blood volume through fluid retention; reduces orthostatic symptoms | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin B12 | Amount listed: 1,000–2,000 mcg daily (methylcobalamin) | Deficiency can cause orthostatic hypotension; essential for autonomic nerve function | Not graded yet | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Coenzyme Q10 | Amount listed: 100–200 mg daily | Supports cardiovascular function and cellular energy production | Not graded yet | ||
| Iron | Amount listed: Only if deficient - ferritin target >50 ng/mL | Anemia worsens orthostatic symptoms; correct if deficient | Not graded yet | ||
| Magnesium | Amount listed: 300–400 mg daily | Supports cardiovascular and nerve function | Not graded yet | ||
| Licorice Root | Amount listed: 450–900 mg daily (monitor blood pressure; not for long-term use) | Contains glycyrrhizin which raises blood pressure through mineralocorticoid effects | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
Support alongside medical care. These supplements are not a treatment for Postural Syncope (Orthostatic Hypotension). If you are being treated for it, talk to your clinician before adding one: supplements can interact with medicines.
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Postural syncope (fainting) occurs when blood pressure drops significantly upon standing, causing inadequate blood flow to the brain. This causes lightheadedness, dizziness, visual changes, and fainting when going from lying/sitting to standing. It can be caused by dehydration, medications (especially blood pressure meds), aging, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and autonomic nervous system disorders. It's particularly common in older adults and can lead to dangerous falls.
CRITICAL: Postural syncope requires medical evaluation to identify underlying causes. Rule out heart problems, medication effects, dehydration, anemia, and neurological conditions. Treatment depends on the cause. Medications like midodrine or fludrocortisone may be needed. Compression stockings and abdominal binders help. Physical counter-maneuvers can prevent fainting. Fall prevention is essential. These supplements support blood volume and cardiovascular function but don't replace medical treatment for significant orthostatic hypotension.
Sodium and Fluid Loading* is the first-line non-pharmacological treatment. Increasing salt intake (3-5g daily) along with adequate fluids (2-3 liters) expands blood volume, reducing the blood pressure drop when standing.
Vitamin B12* deficiency can cause autonomic dysfunction leading to orthostatic hypotension. Ensuring adequate B12 levels supports nerve function.
Coenzyme Q10* supports cardiovascular function and energy production.
Iron* - anemia worsens orthostatic symptoms because there's less oxygen-carrying capacity. Correcting iron deficiency can help.
Magnesium* supports cardiovascular and nerve function.
Licorice Root* contains glycyrrhizin which has mineralocorticoid-like effects, helping retain sodium and raise blood pressure. Use with caution and monitor blood pressure.
Expected timeline: Salt and fluid loading can show benefits within days. Other interventions may take weeks to assess benefit. Management is often long-term.