Supplements That Protect The Cardiovascular System
It is essential that we take enough supplements. The heart is the most worked organ in the human body asides from the brain. The heart never takes a rest and keeps on pumping blood from the day we were born to the day we die. It beats averagely 86,400 times a day, yet it never takes a break. The cardiovascular system or circulatory system (as it is sometimes called) consists of the heart and the blood vessels. The circulatory system performs more functions than pumping blood. It helps in the circulation of hormones, the flow of glucose amongst others.
The heart is to be cared for to prevent cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure, cardiac arrest, coronary artery disease amongst others. Healthy eating and engaging in healthy activities are essential to keep the heart healthy. Nonetheless, to further strengthen the heart, dietary supplements are recommended for a robust circulatory system and to prevent fatal cardiovascular diseases. Some of the best diet supplements for a healthy hearts are touched on subsequently. These supplements are important in protecting the cardiovascular system and also in ensuring the optimal performance of the heart and other organs in the circulatory system.
Dietary Supplements Essential for the Protection of the Cardiovascular System
Omega-3
Omega-3 is a fatty acid found in fish oil and other sea animals like the Krill. It helps in balancing blood lipids like cholesterol and triglycerides. It also improves blood pressure. It decreases the risk of coronary artery disease as it contains EPA and DHA in large quantity which reduces the blood triglyceride levels. Supplements also improve the heart rhythm and prevent clotting of blood and the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Omega-3 further improves plasma levels of HDL cholesterol and reduces blood pressure. Stating the powerful effect of omega-3 acid in combating heart diseases, the American Heart Association recommends a gram of omega-3 supplements daily. Not only does this reduce the risk of a heart attack, but it also increases insulin sensitivity. Omg-3 is also anti-inflammatory. Alternatives to this supplement are oily fish which include tuna, salmons and mackerels.
Coenzyme Q10
This supplement has been found to increase the performance of cardiac muscles. It also reduces blood pressure. CQ10 provides the heart with energy to go about its duties. The heart requires energy to pump blood, digest food and burn fat. CQ10 is a nutrient similar to vitamins and is produced naturally in the body; it is instrumental in the production of antioxidants and energy. As the body ages, the human body produces less and less CQ10, hence, the reason to take the supplements regularly. CQ10 helps to combat heart cramps, arrhythmia and damaged heart muscles. It boosts recovery through supplements. Food sources of CQ10 are broccoli, nuts, shellfish, pork and chicken.
Also known as Nicotinic acid, it consists of a large quantity of vitamin B3 which is an essential nutrient for man. Deficiency of niacin in foods can lead to anaemia, lethargy, nausea and headaches. It is used to treat high blood cholesterol and pellagra. It is used to raise HDL cholesterol. Niacin has been found to lower triglycerides. It also helps to reduce and prevent the toughening of the arteries, a medical condition known as Atherosclerosis. It prevents persons who have already had a heart attack from having another one. Food alternatives to Niacin include meat, poultry, fish and vegetables.
L-Carnitine
This supplement is similar CQ10. Heart diseases have been found to reduce the carnitine levels in its patients. A minimum of 2 grams of Carnitine daily is usually recommended. L-Carnitine helps with burning fats for energy. This it does by transporting fatty acids into mitochondria-little energy plants within the cells where burning of the fats for energy can take place. L-Carnitine has been proven to increase exercise stamina in patients with heart conditions. Thus, also increasing survival rates in patients with heart conditions.
Hawthorn Extracts
Hawthorn plantains contain bioactive compounds that are of significant benefits in the treatment of heart diseases. Hawthorn extracts support oxygenation and lead to increases in blood flow and lead to vasodilation. It keeps the blood pressure within the normal range, and also provides for free radical protection as it is rich in flavonoids. Hawthorn enhances the force of the heart. It is also good for treating arrhythmias and tachycardia.
Arginine
Arginine is an amino acid that helps synthesise nitric oxide that causes dilation of blood vessels. It aids in the regulation of blood pressure. It has been found in recent study to quell vascular dysfunction. It is usually recommended that 6 grams of arginine be consumed per day to restore vascular function and reduce the symptoms of vascular dysfunction. Usually, vascular dysfunction stems from consumption of a high-fat meal.
Lecithin
This particular supplement works well to reduce cholesterol level in a person. It is a rich source of Choline and phospholipids. By lowering homocysteine levels, it reduces the chances of having heart diseases. It has also been discovered that it helps to improve memory and cognitive function.
Vitamin D
Supplements have been said to reduce the risk of heart attacks. Thomas J. Wang, who is an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, stated that deficiency of vitamin D is associated with increased cardiovascular risks.