No, not on birth control... I too know this can contribute, but actually, my blood pressure was fine the years that I was on it (2 yrs)...and I lost weight too (which is rare)... maybe I'm a freak ;)

I'm not really looking for a reason for mine as I truly believe I am one of the majority idiopathic primary hypertensives (I have had hormonal screening and know I am fine there)...

There is a STRONG genetic dispostion to high blood pressure in my family. On my mom's side, everyone pretty much has had it...and many have died from complications of it... active or sedentary, thin or obese.

ddc. Thanks for the links. Of course there are studies showing both. THey have thought low sodium diets to ward off heart disease for years... I just wanted to alert those on here to keep their eyes open in the future.

I have stated that in every post. I'm not saying drop the low sodium... I'm just saying if it turns out to be accurate, keep an eye out for upcoming research... Just in case.