Support for Heart Disease
A healthy heart is unarguably one of the greatest avenues for optimal health and longevity. More and more, patients are realizing the connection between a strong ticker, and exercise and nutrition. Baby boomers are becoming proactive by adding healthy nutrients to their optimal health plans to prevent or minimize heart problems.
The management of cholesterol is important to heart health, but it’s hardly the sole concern. In fact, many people with normal cholesterol levels suffer from coronary artery disease. It is a prominent risk factor, and should be checked regularly.
The key to a healthy heart is the control of inflammation, which appears to be central to the changes that take place within blood vessels, leading to plaque formation and rupture. Markers of inflammation - high-sensitivity CRP and homocysteine - can be drawn by a physician to help determine one’s risk for heart disease.
Poor dietary habits directly increase inflammation, as does a sedentary lifestyle. The inability to manage stress and type A personalities also raise the risk of heart disease. Those connected to a higher being have proven to be healthier overall. A proper heart program must focus on an active lifestyle, healthy eating choices, stress management, a spiritual connection and targeted nutritional supplements to feed the heart’s needs.
To treat or prevent heart disease, patients must make the decision to consume wisely. The current American diet lacks many of the essential nutrients needed to help the heart squeeze and stay on a regular rhythm. Over half of the U.S. population does not get the essential five fruits and vegetables on a daily basis, and five is the low end of the goal. Most nutritional experts suggest seven, and even up to nine, daily servings of fruits and vegetables for optimal health. Protein sources should include healthy, wild-caught fish. For a heart-healthy drink, look no further than water. Green tea is another beverage that can offer benefit through antioxidants. It should be brewed at home, or at the least, contain very little, if any, added ingredients.
Smoking leads to depletion of vitamins and nutrients, and can increase inflammation. Please don’t smoke. Work on a plan and program to quit.
Lack of exercise leads to weight gain and decreased stamina. The heart is a muscle and all muscles weaken without proper stimulation. Exercise is needed to steadily strengthen the heart. Everyone has different needs and abilities. Be certain to find an activity that you find enjoyable. Prior to beginning a program, work with a physician to make sure the intensity of the routine is appropriate.
Managing stress is no easy task. Find outlets that are comfortable and appropriate. For some, exercise is best. Others find solace in journaling, guided imagery, music or art therapy, breathing exercises or cognitive behavioral therapy.
Connecting with a higher being is essential for optimal health. This will cultivate a journey toward ultimate meaning. Whichever belief you foster, start by regularly attending services. Get active in a religious community; socializing is important for spiritual health.
On the next page, learn about supplements that can help you in the battle with heart disease.
Supplements for Heart Disease
Many supplements are available for patients striving to aid or prevent heart disease. Patients with significant symptoms will need to titrate their dose until relief of symptoms is obtained.
- CoQ10. This is very important for the strength of the heart. Maintenance doses are typically 100-200 mg daily. Patients with significant heart failure should consider higher doses of 200-400 mg.
- Fish oils. Dosage is determined by adding the EPA and DHA content on the label. Target 2,000 mg total a day, with food. Fish oils help with inflammation and keep the blood from getting too sticky. They are also very important to prevent deadly heart rhythms in patients who have previously had a heart attack.
- Magnesium. 250-500 mg daily. Magnesium is very important for the heart squeeze. This mineral also contributes to healthy blood pressure and stabilizes the electrical system of the heart.
- B vitamins.B-6: 25 mg dailyB-12: 500 mcg dailyFolic acid: 400 mcg dailyThese B vitamins are essential for lowering elevated homocysteine levels, which is a marker of inflammation and may increase one’s risk for a coronary upset.
Patients with known heart disease may need added supplements to help with fatigue.
- Pomegranate. One capsule daily or 2-4 ounces of pomegranate juice daily. Pomegranate is getting a lot of attention for its benefits to blood flow and inflammation. It should be avoided by those on calcium-channel blockers, as it is not known if they interact.
- L-carnitine or acetyl L-carnitine. 500-2,000 mg daily. Either form will work. The acetyl L-carnitine is used commonly for support to the brain. It can provide needed energy to the heart as well. There may be a potential interaction with warfarin, so these patients should discuss its use with their physician.
- D-ribose. 5-10 grams daily. D-ribose is a powder that is easily mixed in water or juice. It provides raw material for energy production in the muscles, including the heart.
- Garlic. 2 capsules daily, taken with food. Garlic can be a tasty addition to the diet, and is very cost-effective.
- Vitamin E. 400 IU daily. The ingredient list should include alpha-tocopherol with mixed tocopherols. Learn more by reading our article on vitamin E.
This is not an exclusive list. There are many other supplements marketed for the heart. This simple list of vitamins and minerals is a beginner’s guide for safe choices.