Proper Nutrition for Heart Health

It is a well known fact that with proper nutrition we can avoid many health problems, especially if we are in a high risk group. The same goes for our heart and circulatory system. So let’s see what your diet should include, either through food or through a dietary supplement for a better heart function.

Valuable Vitamins

Antioxidants: It is recognized that antioxidants significantly help reduce the damage caused by free radicals to cell membranes and the deposition of fat, including cholesterol.

Vitamin E, for example, reduces the risk of a heart attack and helps maintain healthy blood circulation.

Also, regular intake of vitamin C as a dietary supplement can help lower blood pressure and protect against heart diseases by reducing the damage caused by free radicals.

Selenium: Its deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Getting enough selenium along with other antioxidants, such as β-carotene, vitamin C and E, zinc, magnesium, copper, and coenzyme Q10, can contribute to good blood circulation.

Coenzyme Q10: It is important for the clearance of free radicals and the production of energy in cells. Taking 30-100mg of coenzyme Q10 daily can improve edema, arrhythmia and overall heart function.

Fish oils: They are the main dietary source of beneficial omega-3 essential fatty acids EPA and DHA. The actions of EPA and DHA include the regulation of irregular heartbeat, the improvement of hypertension and of blood viscosity. Fish oil inhibits the development of atherosclerosis and lowers cholesterol levels (by improving the HDL: LDL ratio) and triglycerides). Studies have also shown that flaxseed oil can help lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels.

Folic acid: Folic acid deficiency has been identified as a factor that increases the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke.

Magnesium: Magnesium deficiency has been linked to increased platelet aggregation, development of atherosclerosis and irregular heartbeat. After a heart attack, magnesium levels are low in the body and patients seem to benefit from taking magnesium.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction, and stroke.

Two Precious Herbs

Cold pressed garlic helps to thin the blood and reduces the chance of developing blood clots. Studies have also shown that this type of garlic contains valuable sulfur-containing ingredients that can help lower cholesterol levels.

Ginkgo biloba acts as a vascular dilator and is traditionally used to improve blood circulation to the limbs and brain.