Love is in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches. Roses and chocolates, date nights and love letters will be the theme of February, the heart month. The heart is how we love and is at the center of our lives. It is the strongest and most hard-working muscle in the body.
As a part of the cardiovascular system, the heart’s job is to pump blood through a network of veins and arteries, that carries nutrients throughout the body. It is about the size of a fist and contains four chambers that work harmoniously to receive, pump, oxygenate and distribute nutrient-rich blood. Vitamins for heart health provide the right nutrients the heart and blood vessels need to work at an optimal level.
Heart supplements can also be taken as a preventative measure, especially if you are genetically predisposed to cardiovascular problems. An illness that can directly affect the heart includes high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, obesity, arrhythmias, and venous thrombosis.
In this article, we will explore the best vitamins for heart health and other measures we can take to maintain a strong and healthy heart.
Top 5 supplements for heart health
1. Omega 3
Prolonged inflammation can harm blood vessels, causing heart disease and stroke. Omega-3, found in fish, nuts, and plant oils, fights inflammation. Since the body doesn’t produce it, supplementation or dietary intake is vital. Noo-tropics Omega-3 fish oil is a potent blend. Omega-3 benefits brain health, eases joint pain, and promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails.
2. CoQ10
The body makes CoQ10, an antioxidant that boosts cellular oxygen use, enhancing exercise performance. CoQ10 supplements lower heart attack risk, blood pressure, and counteract Statin side effects. According to the British Medical Journal, it’s a valuable heart supplement with minimal side effects for heart failure management.
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C does more than boost the immune system. It helps make Nitric Oxide, widening blood vessels and releasing certain hormones, improving blood flow and vessel function, and preventing atherosclerosis.
4. Allicin (Garlic Extract)
Garlic, despite its strong taste, offers great benefits. Allicin, its active ingredient, in capsule form, has no taste and is excellent for heart health. Garlic, a common kitchen item, has no side effects and many positive effects. According to the US National Library of Medicine, it lowers blood
5. B complex
This vitamin dissolves in water and is important for everyone. B complex includes all B vitamins, which help many body functions. Taking B vitamins strengthens blood vessels and boosts energy production in the body. Folic acid (B9) can lower the chance of heart disease and stroke by controlling homocysteine in the blood. Homocysteine is harmful. Eating meat can make homocysteine levels go up, which can lead to heart problems early. Experts say take 100mg every day.
Additional heart-health lifestyle tips
Exercise
Keeping the body in motion is a great way to keep the heart strong. Exercise not only burns calories but also promotes easier dilation of heart arteries, stabilizes blood pressure, and supports healthy cholesterol levels. According to Harvard Medical School, one exercise session can protect your heart for up to 3 hours.
As you exercise, your heart becomes more resilient. 30 minutes a day is ideal for Cardiovascular health and intensity should be based on your current fitness level.
Final thoughts:
Overall, the heart, a self-regulated pump, needs optimal conditions to thrive. Top heart health supplements, diet, and exercise maintain its health and prevent illnesses. Love is life’s essence; caring for the heart ensures it cares for us.
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