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| - Last Updated on November 28, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that Dr Naresh Trehan is promoting a quick fix for high blood pressure. We did a fact check and have determined this claim to be false.
The Claim
According to a Facebook post, Dr Naresh Trehan is allegedly promoting a quick remedy for high blood pressure. The text caption claims that this remedy can cure high blood pressure in just five seconds, while the voiceover in the video states that it can treat the root cause of hypertension within six hours. The video urges viewers to click on a link for more information about the remedy.
Fact Check
Is the video of Dr Naresh Trehan genuine?
No, the video is a deepfake. It shows clear signs of manipulation, such as unnatural facial movements and mismatched lip-syncing, which are typical indicators of deepfake technology.
Dr Naresh Trehan’s gestures and expressions in the video look robotic and do not match his usual public manner. There is also no record of him endorsing any quick-fix remedy for high blood pressure. A thorough review of recent news related to him and trusted medical platforms reveals no such claims. We also analysed the video using TrueMedia, which found “substantial evidence of manipulation.”
The post includes a link that is clickbait. This link leads to a dead page with a generic statement about healthy diets: “A healthy diet provides protection against malnutrition in all its forms, as well as non-communicable diseases.”
The lack of details about the remedy, combined with the altered video, casts doubt on the credibility of the entire post. It seems to be an attempt to mislead viewers and exploit Dr Trehan’s reputation for clicks or profit.
To add to the confusion, the text caption claims the remedy can cure high blood pressure in five seconds, while the voiceover in the video says it can address the root cause of hypertension in six hours. These contradictory claims, along with the lack of an actual remedy and the misleading link, further highlight the questionable nature of the post.
In a very similar case, we have debunked another deepfake video featuring Dr Naresh Trehan promoting a quick remedy for diabetes. Likewise, an image of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was altered, showing him in a hospital on a ventilator.
Can blood pressure be brought down in 5 seconds?
No, blood pressure cannot be reduced in just five seconds. Blood pressure management requires time and effective interventions. Acute reductions might be achieved in emergencies through intravenous medications administered in hospitals. But, even these take minutes, not seconds. The claim of an instant solution is unrealistic and medically impossible.
What are the medically approved ways to lower blood pressure?
Medically approved ways include lifestyle changes and medication. Doctors recommend a combination of strategies to manage hypertension:
- Medications: Prescribed drugs like ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors), calcium channel blockers, and diuretics are proven to reduce blood pressure over time.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Regular exercise, a healthy diet for hypertension, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, and low in sodium, and stress reduction techniques can help.
- Limiting alcohol and quitting smoking: These lifestyle changes significantly lower cardiovascular risks.
For acute spikes, specific medications administered under medical supervision can bring levels down safely.
We connected with Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai, to learn about the proven ways to manage high blood pressure. She says, “The most effective way to lower blood pressure is through a combination of lifestyle changes and, when necessary, medication. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing salt intake, and managing stress are all key factors. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe medication to help keep your blood pressure within a healthy range. The aim is always to address the root causes while promoting long-term health.”
We also reached out to Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician, Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, to learn about the medically approved methods for treating high blood pressure. He states, “Lowering blood pressure is a gradual process that involves both daily habits and medical treatment. I always recommend reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and incorporating more physical activity into your routine. For many patients, a healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods, is crucial. In some cases, blood pressure-lowering medications can help, but lifestyle changes are always the first step.”
Are there proven home remedies to reduce blood pressure?
Some remedies may help, but they are not substitutes for medical treatment. Home remedies like consuming potassium-rich foods (e.g., bananas, spinach), reducing salt intake, or practising mindfulness for stress may support blood pressure management. Regular exercise is also beneficial for reducing blood pressure. However, they work gradually and should complement, not replace, prescribed treatments.
Drinking beetroot juice or hibiscus tea has shown modest benefits in studies. However, their effects are not immediate or standalone solutions. Always consult a doctor before trying any home remedy.
THIP Media Take
The claim that Dr Naresh Trehan is promoting a quick fix for high blood pressure is false. The video is a deepfake, created using AI, and no credible source backs the claim. Blood pressure cannot be cured in seconds or hours through unproven methods. Effective management involves evidence-based treatments, lifestyle changes, and ongoing medical guidance. Stay wary of misleading health claims on social media.
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