Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

While there are several factors that contribute to heart disease, including genetics, lifestyle, and environment, a healthy diet and lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Dietary supplements can also support heart health and lower the risk of heart disease. Here are some dietary supplements that can protect your heart.

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that are not produced by the body and must be obtained from the diet. They are abundant in fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, as well as in walnuts and flaxseed.

Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation, lower triglycerides, and decrease the risk of heart disease.

2. Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a natural antioxidant that is found in every cell of the body. It plays a key role in cellular energy production and can help protect the heart from damage caused by free radicals.

CoQ10 levels in the body decrease with age, and some medications, such as statins used to lower cholesterol, can also decrease CoQ10 levels. Supplementation with CoQ10 has been shown to improve heart function and lower blood pressure.

3. Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for many bodily functions, including heart function. It helps regulate heart rhythm and can improve arterial function.

Magnesium deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, and supplementation with magnesium may help reduce that risk. Foods that are high in magnesium include leafy green vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.

4. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for bone health. It also plays a role in immune function and can help regulate blood pressure.

Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, and supplementation with vitamin D may help improve heart function and decrease the risk of heart disease. Foods that are high in vitamin D include fatty fish and fortified dairy products.

5. Garlic

Garlic has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and may help protect the heart. Studies have shown that garlic can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and prevent blood clots.

Garlic supplements can be taken in pill form or added to food.

6. L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is an amino acid that plays a key role in energy metabolism. It helps transport fatty acids into cells to be used for energy production. L-Carnitine can help improve heart function and decrease the risk of heart disease.

It is found in meat and dairy products, but supplementation may be needed to achieve therapeutic levels.

7. Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract is derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and contains powerful antioxidants called catechins. These antioxidants can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve arterial function.

Green tea extract can be taken in pill form or added to food and beverages.

8. Hawthorn Berry

Hawthorn berry is a herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries for its cardiovascular benefits. It can help improve heart function, reduce blood pressure, and improve blood flow.

Hawthorn berry can be taken in pill form or added to food and beverages.

9. Red Yeast Rice

Red yeast rice is a traditional Chinese medicine that is made by fermenting rice with a type of yeast called Monascus purpureus.

It contains a compound called monacolin K, which is chemically identical to the active ingredient in the cholesterol-lowering medication lovastatin. Red yeast rice can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It can be taken in pill form or added to food.

10. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is known for its antioxidant properties. It can help improve arterial function and decrease the risk of heart disease. Vitamin E can be found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils, and can also be taken in pill form.

In conclusion, incorporating these dietary supplements into your daily routine can help protect your heart and lower the risk of heart disease.

It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have a history of heart disease or are taking medications.