Your heart is a vital organ that works tirelessly to pump blood to cells, tissues and other organs. A healthy heart is the cornerstone of a vibrant, fulfilling life. The human heart, tirelessly pumping blood and life-sustaining oxygen throughout our bodies, is the ultimate symbol of vitality and well-being. To ensure it continues to perform optimally, we must provide it with the right nutrients. The relationship between nutrition and heart health is a critical one, as what we consume has a direct impact on the strength and resilience of our cardiovascular system. In this exploration of important nutrients for heart health, we will delve into the essential vitamins, minerals, and compounds that play a pivotal role in maintaining the well-being of this vital organ. These nutrients are not only the keys to a longer, healthier life but also the foundations of a heart that beats with vitality and vigor.
CoQ10: CoQ10 is like a special antioxidant that our cells naturally make to help with two important things: giving us energy and protecting our cells. It is highly concentrated in the heart and the levels drop as we age. The reason why CoQ10 is used in treating heart problems is because when our heart muscles lose their ability to contract effectively, it's often due to a lack of energy in tiny cell structures called mitochondria. Additionally, having lower levels of a substance called nitric oxide (NO) makes it harder for blood vessels to relax and widen, which is important for good blood flow. Both of these issues have been linked to not having enough natural CoQ10 in the body. Based on clinical evidence a 2021 study concluded that CoQ10 supplementation helps prevent risk of heart-related issues and is safe to use for prolonged periods of time.
Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in promoting heart health through various mechanisms. Omega-3 is beneficial in lowering high blood levels of triglycerides and LDL. It also lowers inflammation, supports healthy blood pressure, which plays a crucial role in reducing hypertension, blood clot formation and development of heart conditions.
A 2019 study which was a meta-analysis of 13 different studies looked at the effects of taking marine omega-3 supplements on heart health. The results showed that taking these supplements was linked to a lower risk of heart-related issues like heart attacks, coronary heart disease, and cardiovascular disease. Researchers concluded that the more omega-3 people took, the lower their risk of heart problems. So, in a nutshell, it suggests that marine omega-3 supplements can be good for your heart and may lower the chances of heart attacks and other heart-related issues.
Folate: Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin that plays a crucial role in heart health. It is involved in the breakdown of an amino acid called homocysteine. High levels of homocysteine in the blood are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Folate, along with vitamins B6 and B12, helps keep homocysteine levels in check, reducing this risk. It helps in the production of nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that relaxes and dilates blood vessels. This dilation of blood vessels supports healthy blood pressure levels and overall cardiovascular function. Folate also plays a significant role in reducing inflammation which is one of the risk factors for heart disease. Folate is involved in several anti-inflammatory processes, which can help reduce the risk of inflammation-related heart conditions. A large prospective study found that individuals who reported consuming more folate had a lower risk of experiencing nonfatal heart attacks and fatal coronary heart disease.
While there are many other nutrients and natural herbs that work to promote heart health, the aforementioned nutrients are a staple in any heart-healthy diet, including supplements. These nutrients are not only the keys to a longer, healthier life but also the foundations of a heart that beats with vitality and vigor.
If you are considering some high-quality supplements to improve your heart health, here are our recommendations:
CoQ10 by Pure Encapsulations: Pure Encapsulations CoQ10 is a powerful enhancer of energy levels within every cell of the body, offering increased vitality, improved exercise endurance, and essential nourishment for the cardiovascular system. Coenzyme Q10, an indispensable nutrient, plays a vital role in cellular energy production and respiration. Pure Encapsulations CoQ10 supports all cells throughout the body, with a special focus on high-energy-demanding tissues such as the heart muscle, periodontal tissue, and the body's natural defense system. This product is available in various strengths and sizes and is certified as Gluten-Free, GMO-Free, Soy-Free, Dairy-Free, suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans. Check out the Supplement Facts for CoQ10 30 mg. The recommended serving size for this supplement is one capsule. Each capsule contains 30 mg of Coenzyme Q10, and the daily value (DV) has not been established. The product's ingredients include hypoallergenic plant fiber (cellulose) and a vegetarian capsule made from cellulose and water. For CoQ10 30 mg, it is suggested to take one capsule between 1 to 4 times daily, with meals. The supplement is available as 60 mg, 120 mg, 250 mg, and 500 mg, the recommended use is one capsule, 1 to 2 times daily, also with meals as recommended by your providers.
ProOmega LDL by Nordic Naturals: Nordic Naturals ProOmega LDL supports the maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels through the use of 1200 mg of organic Red Yeast Rice. The dynamic combination of EPA and DHA collaborates with the potent lipid-metabolizing properties of red yeast rice, a natural, red-pigmented yeast cultivated on rice, along with CoQ10. This partnership enhances the breakdown of dietary fats and cholesterol, encourages the well-being of blood vessels, and offers robust antioxidant defense against harmful free radicals. The product includes the following key ingredients per serving Red Yeast Rice (Monascus purpureus): 1800 mg, total Omega-3s: 975 mg, EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid): 489 mg, DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): 336 mg, Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone): 30 mg.
Active B-Complex by Integrative Therapeutics: Integrative Therapeutics Active B-Complex is a meticulously balanced and hypoallergenic formula that encompasses five essential forms of Vitamin B, including active variants of B2, B6, and B12, along with methylfolate. This comprehensive blend is designed to foster neurological and cardiovascular well-being. The consumption of optimal levels of folate and B vitamins has been linked to promoting healthy neurological function and providing valuable cardiovascular support. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) serves a crucial role in various bodily functions, encompassing the nervous system and muscle operation, regulation of electrolytes within nerve and muscle cells, enzymatic processes, carbohydrate metabolism, and stomach acid production. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) participates in vital metabolic processes, supporting normal cell function, growth, and the generation of energy. Vitamin B3 (niacin, niacinamide) is metabolized to produce essential coenzymes, such as niacinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), niacinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP), and nicotinuric acid, all of which are pivotal for cell function. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) plays a crucial role in synthesizing neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, contributes to myelin formation, and supports amino acid metabolism. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) exists in coenzyme forms within the body, actively participating in cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and various other bodily systems. Additionally, this formula features Quatrefolic brand Methylfolate, a bioactive and reduced form of folic acid. Folates play a central role in DNA and RNA synthesis, impact homocysteine and vitamin B12 metabolism, and are essential for the optimal function of the central nervous and immunological systems. Importantly, this formula is free from artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, dairy products, gluten, ingredients of animal origin, preservatives, salt, soy, sugar, wheat, and yeast. The recommendation is to take 1 or 2 capsules daily.
Carditone by Ayush Herb: Ayush Herbs Carditone stands as the leading herbal formula for promoting a well-functioning cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and renal system, all while offering stress-relief benefits. This remarkable formulation aids in maintaining blood pressure levels within the normal range, providing essential micronutrients and phytochemicals for heart health. Key ingredients include rauwolfia, a renowned herb supporting healthy blood pressure, and arjuna, backed by studies for its antioxidant-rich properties in bolstering lung and cardiac well-being. Simultaneously, tribulus and boerhavia have a long history of traditional use in kidney support. The addition of rose powder imparts a soothing effect without inducing excessive relaxation, making Carditone an exceptional daily supplement for sustained cardiovascular well-being. The suggested dosage is one caplet a day. One caplet contains 200 mg of Magnesium aspartate, equivalent to 9.5% of the recommended daily intake. The proprietary blend in one serving comprises 350 mg and includes Coral powder (Dendrogyra cylindricus), Cabbage rose (Rosa centifolia) flower, and Boerhavia (Boerhaavia diffusa) root. Additionally, it contains Shankhpushpi herba (Convolvulus pluricaulis) at 100 mg, Arjuna bark (Terminalia arjuna) at 100 mg, Tribulus seed (Tribulus terrestris) at 100 mg, Rauwolfia root (Rauwolfia serpentina) at 50 mg, and Madagascar Periwinkle herba (Vinca rosa) at 25 mg.
As with the case of all dietary supplements, it is important to consult with your provider about adding these supplements to your diet.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8151454/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31567003/
Rimm EB, Willett WC, Hu FB, Sampson L, Colditz GA, Manson JE, Hennekens C, Stampfer MJ. Folate and vitamin B6 from diet and supplements in relation to risk of coronary heart disease among women. JAMA. 1998; 279: 359–364.