“bad” cholesterol (LDL) and increased levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL). Higher levels of HDL can also help with reducing the risk of diabetes.
If you do decide to take supplements, increase the amount slowly and make sure to drink a lot of water while taking these supplements.
Omega-3s
This is probably the most well-known supplement attributed to heart health. Fatty fishes, like salmon or anchovies, are especially beneficial for those looking to keep their heart healthy.
If you are unable to get enough fatty fish into your diet, you can also use fish oil capsules to get some of the benefits. Populations who have higher levels of fatty fish consumption tend to have lower rates of heart disease.
Omega-3s are not only important for heart health, but overall survival. They are crucial materials in the membranes around every cell in the body.
Particularly, a diet rich in omega-3s is good news for the heart, according to numerous studies. Three recent studies showed that these fatty acids protected the heart against “sudden cardiac death,” which causes half of all deaths from heart disease. Combined with earlier studies, scientists can state with more confidence that omega-3s help to reduce the risk of irregular heartbeats, sudden death from heart-related issues, and blood clots.
Quiz: Do You Know How to Eat Your Way to a Healthier Heart?
Iron
Iron is typically tied to just red blood cells, but this also ties directly to the heart. Iron is essential to getting oxygen to flow throughout the body and supports its vital functions. Low iron levels physically manifest themselves to fatigue, anemia, weakened immune system, and less effective body temperature control.
Similar to Vitamin K, iron has been tied to a reduced risk of ASCVD. However, it is important to note that a significantly high amount of iron to the body is tied to an increased risk of stroke due to iron’s ability to clot blood. Blood clotting can be good to a certain extent, but past that it puts the patient at risk of a stroke.
In fact, most patients likely do not need iron supplements. They can get all of the iron they need from a standard diet. However, consult with your diet if an iron supplement is needed for you.
While vitamins will not cure heart disease, it can be extremely beneficial in protecting your heart health and building a more resilient heart. Using the vitamins found in food and supplements as a form of medicine is a simplified and accessible way to improve overall health. Do your research and consult with your doctor about what vitamins are most essential to you.