Supplements for Cardiovascular Support
Keeping the heart healthy may be one the most important but challenging elements of our overall health and longevity. It pumps blood and oxygen through the body, and is so critical that when it stops working, we stop working, or “flatline.” In that sense, it is perhaps the most important organ in the body along with the brain.
“Heart health” became a priority several decades ago but recommendations have varied widely over the years. While exercise has been a constant, diet plans have ranged from “fat-free” to high-protein to vegan. Processed food has contributed to a huge uptick in obesity, insulin resistance and heart disease worldwide. The Mediterranean Diet, high in healthy fats and protein, has been shown to be the most optimal for heart health. Ideally, those with genetic predispositions or labs showing a propensity toward heart issues should follow a Mediterranean diet and exercise regularly.
Supplements can also help support heart health, and ideally should be used to complement a healthy diet and regular exercise.
CoQ-10 offers several benefits for the heart. These include lowering inflammatory markers; increasing good cholesterol; lowering the rates of subsequent heart attacks in those who have already had them; lowering blood pressure; and reducing side effects in those taking statins.
D Ribose is known as a “cardiac rejuvenator” as it supports ATP production in the heart, which helps the heart muscle and keeps blood pumping.
Magnesium transports electrolytes into cells,which are important for nerve signals and muscle contractions to keep a regular heartbeat. Low magnesium is associated with atrial fibrillation.
Omega 3s decrease triglycerides, decrease blood sugar, reduce blood clotting and reduce irregular heartbeats. They are known for decreasing inflammation in the blood vessels and throughout the body.
Vitamin K2 is known to help prevent calcium buildup in the arteries, which is a major factor in heart disease.
Garlic has properties that can prevent cellular damage, regulate cholesterol and lower blood pressure. Studies have also shown garlic to reduce plaque buildup in the arteries.
Olive Polyphenols offer protection by improving the function of the inner lining of the heart and blood vessels; by increasing good cholesterol (HDL) and decreasing bad cholesterol (LDL); and by reducing inflammation.
Nattokinase can help maintain good blood vessel structure, improve blood flow, lower blood pressure and dissolve blood clots.
Hibiscus has been shown to reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol.
Hawthorn is known for increasing coronary artery blood flow, improving circulation and lowering blood pressure. It is also used for arrhythmia.
Forskolin has been shown to produce a more powerful heartbeat and widen blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure.
Serrapeptase has been used to dissolve blood clots and break up plaque in the arteries.
Bergamot has been shown to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides while raising good cholesterol.
Medications prescribed for cardiovascular health can deplete other nutrients:
Statins: CoQ-10, Selenium, Magnesium, Vitamin D
Beta Blockers: Melatonin, Zinc, CoQ-10
Thiazide Diuretics: Magnesium, Zinc, Folate, Iron, Potassium and Sodium
Loop Diuretics: Magnesium, Zinc, Thiamine/Benfotiamine, Folate, Sodium
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Magnesium, Zinc, Folate
ACE-Inhibitors and ARBs: Melatonin, Zinc, CoQ-10
Metformin: B12, Folate, Calcium, B6, CoQ-10
*DO NOT USE BLOOD THINNING HERBS WITH ASPIRIN OR COUMADIN.
As with all supplements, it is advised to consult with your doctor, and start one at a time and build up to recommended amounts slowly. All of the above supplements are available on my Wellevate site at 25% off.
