Heart disease is a prevalent issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a leading cause of death in the United States, and statistics show that 655,000 Americans die of heart disease each year.

The good news is that there are measures that can be taken to prevent heart disease or improve heart health. One of these measures is the use of dietary supplements.

What are Dietary Supplements?

Dietary supplements are products intended to supplement the diet. They can contain one or more ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and enzymes.

Dietary supplements are available in various forms, including pills, capsules, liquids, and powders. They are not meant to replace a healthy diet but rather to enhance it.

The Role of Dietary Supplements in Heart Health

Dietary supplements can play a significant role in maintaining or improving heart health. Here are some of the ways dietary supplements can help:.

1. Lowering Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels are a significant risk factor for heart disease. Some dietary supplements, such as psyllium, plant stanols/sterols, and fish oil, may help to lower cholesterol levels.

Psyllium is a type of soluble fiber that can help to reduce the absorption of cholesterol from food. Plant stanols/sterols are compounds that can block the absorption of cholesterol in the gut. Fish oil is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to lower triglycerides.

2. Reducing Inflammation

Chronic inflammation plays a role in the development of heart disease. Some dietary supplements, such as curcumin, resveratrol, and omega-3 fatty acids, have anti-inflammatory properties.

Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, which has been found to reduce inflammation. Resveratrol is a compound found in grapes, red wine, and berries, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, have been found to decrease inflammation in the body.

3. Controlling Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is another risk factor for heart disease. Some dietary supplements, such as magnesium, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and garlic, may help to lower blood pressure.

Magnesium is a mineral that helps to relax blood vessels, which can help to lower blood pressure. CoQ10 is an antioxidant that helps to improve the function of blood vessels. Garlic has been found to have blood pressure-lowering effects.

4. Promoting Heart Health

Some dietary supplements may help to promote heart health by improving the function of the cardiovascular system. For example, Hawthorn berry has been found to improve blood flow and decrease blood pressure.

Green tea contains catechins, which have antioxidant properties and may help to improve cardiovascular health. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help to prevent the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.

The Bottom Line

Dietary supplements can be a valuable addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle. They can help to lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, control blood pressure, and promote heart health.

However, it is important to note that dietary supplements are not meant to replace a healthy diet or medication prescribed by a healthcare provider. Before taking any dietary supplements, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or take medication.