Time For A Heart To Heart

The heart is no laughing matter. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. Giving the ticker proper attention keeps the heart healthy and ready for life. Diet and exercise form part of maintaining a strong heart. But can vitamins and supplements do the same? Try the following essential vitamins and minerals.

Go crazy for CoQ10

Few supplements have as much of a direct impact on heart health as CoQ10. Coenzyme Q10 is a compound present in the cells of the body. CoQ10 powers the mitochondria, the batteries of cells. The most mitochondria are in the heart. A healthy supply of CoQ10 keeps the heart humming along. CoQ10 is present in meats, nuts, and oils. But to really get the most? Try a CoQ10 daily supplement.

Stock up on omega-3s

Not a fan of fish? Don’t miss out on the biggest benefit. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish do wonders for cholesterol. By lowering bad cholesterol, or LDL, and triglycerides, omega-3s may help prevent cardiovascular disease. So switch to salmon for big heart benefits. Still unconvinced? Try a fish oil or an omega-3 supplement instead.

The hidden hero in the spice cabinet

Use turmeric for your curries? Inside the spice is curcumin, a heart-healthy compound. Curcumin has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The properties help prevent heart attacks, stroke and promote healthy blood vessels to the heart. As turmeric contains small amounts of curcumin, try curcumin supplements. Curcumin brings the heart benefits without the spice.

A complex solution to heart health

A B-complex supplement contains 8 essential B vitamins. Some B vitamins directly impact heart health. Niacin, or vitamin B3, is essential for managing cholesterol. The folic acid in the supplement helps blood vessels, DNA growth, and cardiovascular health. B12 is among the best of the vitamins. From nerve health, DNA production and blood cells, B12 supports the heart from multiple directions. Vitamin B deficiencies can create several problems including heart palpitations. So stock up on vitamin B.

Ease the pressure with vitamin C

Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, has a range of health benefits, besides fighting the sniffles. The inflammation properties of vitamin C may slightly lower blood pressure. Even more, the antioxidants in vitamin C manage bad cholesterol. The body cannot create vitamin C. So the best sources are fruit, veggies or a daily supplement.

Get more of the mighty magnesium

A study linked a magnesium deficiency to heart health. Magnesium is a mineral responsible for bone health and several chemical reactions in the body. Additionally, magnesium maintains the strength of the heart and arteries. Multivitamins contain magnesium. However, speak with a healthcare provider when deciding on a magnesium supplement. Some drugs like antibiotics interact poorly with the mineral.

Heart health starts today

Adding vitamins and minerals to a healthy diet reduces the chances of heart disease. The aforementioned vitamins and supplements provide some of the best benefits around. Remember, supplements should not replace a healthy diet. Speak with a doctor or pharmacist before starting new supplements. Professionals can recommend the safest, most effective, heart-healthy supplements.