Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of American adults have at least one of three key risk factors for heart disease: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. Taking certain supplements may help improve blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and improve other things that can put you at risk for heart disease. Here are some of the best supplements for heart health that can be a good addition to your heart-healthy lifestyle.
1. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
One of the best supplements for heart health is coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10. This is a substance that the body naturally produces to use for cell growth and maintenance. It also functions as an antioxidant to protect against oxidative stress and cell damage. Levels of CoQ10 naturally decline with age, and certain diseases and conditions, including heart disease, have been associated with low levels of this substance. Taking CoQ10 supplements may help manage these conditions.
2. Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially those found in fish oil, have been found to provide heart health benefits. Omega-3s can help reduce triglycerides, lower blood pressure, slow the development of arterial plaque, and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. If you eat a lot of fatty fish, you likely already consume enough omega-3s. However, most people can benefit from taking omega-3 supplements to make sure these levels are optimal for heart health.
3. Fiber
There are many benefits to consuming high amounts of fiber daily, including heart health benefits. Fiber can help regulate blood sugar, lower bad cholesterol, and support a healthy weight, all of which can contribute to heart health. Soluble fiber binds to cholesterol in the gut, preventing it from being absorbed by the body. It also promotes a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, which contributes to all aspects of your health including your heart. That’s why one of the best supplements for heart health that you can take is fiber supplements.
4. Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that is vital for healthy muscles, bones, nerves, and cardiovascular system. Studies have found that taking oral magnesium supplements can help lower blood pressure in individuals taking blood pressure medication. Research has also associated a high magnesium intake with a lower risk of a variety of heart disease risk factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart rhythm abnormalities, and metabolic syndrome.
5. Folate
Another one of the best supplements for heart health is folate. Folate is an essential water-soluble vitamin that lowers levels of the amino acid homocysteine. Homocysteine can damage the inner walls of arteries and has been linked to heart disease. Research suggests that taking folate supplements may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by breaking down homocysteine.
Improve Your Heart Health with Diet
These are some of the best supplements for heart health that may help reduce your risk of heart disease. To ensure your heart receives all the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and function properly, you should also make sure you’re eating a heart-healthy diet. Check out this list of the top heart-healthy foods that you should be eating daily to improve your heart health.
