Supplements are often associated with improving bone and muscle health, but they can also play a significant role in promoting heart health. Studies have shown that adding certain supplements to a healthy diet and exercise routine can help to reduce the risk of diseases, lower blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular function
According to Stanford Medicine, South Asians have a 40% higher chance of mortality from heart attacks than the average population. This statistic highlights the importance of understanding and addressing disease risk factors specific to different populations, as well as the need for targeted prevention and treatment strategies to improve heart health outcomes.
That is why maintaining good heart health is critical for overall health and well-being among people living in this region. The heart is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to all of our organs. If the heart is not functioning properly, it can lead to serious health problems, including diseases, stroke, and heart attacks.
While there are many factors that contribute to heart health, such as exercise and a healthy diet, taking supplements can also play an important role in promoting heart health. In this article, we will discuss the top three supplements that you can take to boost your heart health naturally.
Three Best Heart Supplements
1. Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a naturally occurring antioxidant that is found in every cell in the body. It plays a vital role in producing energy and is particularly important for the health of the heart, which requires a significant amount of energy to function properly. It is naturally present in small amounts in a wide variety of foods, but levels are particularly high in organ meats such as heart, liver, and kidney, as well as beef, soy oil, sardines, mackerel, and peanuts.
CoQ10 levels naturally decrease with age and people with certain diseases such as heart failure, high blood pressure, gum disease, Parkinson’s disease, blood infections, certain diseases of the muscles, and HIV infection, might have lower levels of coenzyme Q10.
Studies have shown that Coenzyme Q10 may help to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular function. It also functions as an antioxidant property that can protect against free radical damage, which can contribute to heart disease.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of essential fats that the body needs to function properly but cannot produce on its own, meaning you need to get them from the foods you eat. These healthy fats are found in high concentrations in fatty fish, such as salmon, as well as in some plant-based sources, like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and edamame.
There are two main types of fatty acids – saturated and unsaturated fat. Saturated fats are sometimes known as “bad” or “unhealthy” fats because they increase your risk of certain diseases like heart disease and stroke. On the other hand, unsaturated fats are considered “good” or “healthy” fats because they support your heart health when used in moderation.
Omega-3 fatty acids are “healthy fats” that play a vital role in heart health by helping to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease. It may lower one’s cardiovascular disease risk when consumed as part of a diet.
There are different types of omega-3 supplements available, including fish oil, krill oil, and algae-based supplements, each with its own unique benefits and recommended dosages. Incorporating omega-3 supplements into a healthy diet can be an effective way to support heart health naturally.
3. Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that plays a vital role in many bodily functions, including muscle function, nerve conduction, energy production, regulating heart rhythm, blood pressure, and the overall function of the cardiovascular system. Low magnesium levels can be a sign of heart disease and can be linked with cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, arterial plaque build-up, calcification of soft tissues, cholesterol, and hardening of the arteries.
Magnesium is found in a wide variety of foods such as nuts, legumes, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains but supplements can also offer benefits, especially for those with low magnesium intake.
Studies claimed that magnesium supplements can have significant benefits for heart health including reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attacks. It may also help to lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular function in those with hypertension and migraines.
Aside from these health benefits, magnesium may also help people have overall wellness such as better sleep quality, helping them fall asleep quicker and stay asleep longer, and improved mood and feeling.
Conclusion
Taking supplements can be a useful way to support heart health naturally. Coenzyme Q10, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium are among the top supplements that have been shown to have significant benefits for heart health.
However, it is important to note that supplements should never be used as a replacement for medication or medical advice from a healthcare professional. It is always best to consult with a doctor or registered dietitian before starting any supplement regimen, as some supplements may interact with medications or have potential side effects. By incorporating these heart supplements into a healthy diet and lifestyle, individuals may be able to reduce their risk of heart-related health problems and improve their overall cardiovascular function leading to healthier and more stable heart health.
