Heart Health Hacks: 5 Natural Supplements Your Cardiologist SHOULD Tell You About
An anatomical model of the human heart, used to illustrate cardiovascular health and wellness.
Ah, the heart—a tireless organ that keeps us going through the highs of love and the lows of tax season. While a balanced diet and regular exercise are the cornerstones of heart health, certain natural supplements can offer additional support. Here are five supplements to consider, along with their potential medication interactions and supporting research.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The Heart’s Best Friend
Omega-3s, found abundantly in fatty fish like salmon, are essential fatty acids known to reduce inflammation and support overall cardiovascular health.
• Potential Medication Interactions: Omega-3 supplements can thin the blood, potentially enhancing the effects of anticoagulant medications like warfarin, increasing bleeding risk. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting omega-3 supplements, especially if you’re on blood thinners.
• Supporting Research: A meta-analysis published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
2. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): The Heart’s Energy Booster
CoQ10 is a naturally occurring antioxidant that plays a crucial role in energy production within cells. It supports heart health and is especially beneficial for individuals taking statins, as these medications can deplete CoQ10 levels in the body.
• Potential Medication Interactions: CoQ10 may lower blood pressure, so combining it with antihypertensive medications could cause blood pressure to drop too low. Additionally, CoQ10 might interfere with blood-thinning medications, altering their effectiveness.
• Supporting Research: A study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology highlighted CoQ10’s potential in improving symptoms in patients with chronic heart failure.
3. Magnesium Malate: The Heart’s Relaxation Mineral
Magnesium malate combines magnesium with malic acid, enhancing absorption and providing benefits like regulating blood pressure and maintaining a steady heartbeat.
• Potential Medication Interactions: Magnesium supplements can interact with certain medications, including some antibiotics and blood pressure medications, potentially affecting their absorption and efficacy.
• Supporting Research: Research published in BMC Medicine suggests that increased dietary magnesium intake is associated with a reduced risk of stroke, heart failure, and type 2 diabetes.
4. Lion’s Mane Mushroom: The Cognitive and Cardiac Ally
Lion’s Mane is a medicinal mushroom known for its neuroprotective properties and potential cardiovascular benefits.
• Potential Medication Interactions: While generally considered safe, Lion’s Mane may interact with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs, potentially increasing bleeding risk.
• Supporting Research: A study highlighted by Healthline indicates that Lion’s Mane extract may help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream, a key factor in heart disease.
5. Reishi Mushroom: The Immune Modulator
Reishi mushrooms have been used traditionally to enhance immune function and may offer cardiovascular benefits by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Potential Medication Interactions: Reishi can enhance the effects of blood-thinning medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. It may also interact with certain blood pressure medications.
• Supporting Research: According to Verywell Health, Reishi mushrooms contain compounds that may help lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health.
Disclaimer: Before starting any new supplement regimen, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you’re currently taking medications or have underlying health conditions. Supplements can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone.
Let’s Connect!
Your heart health journey is unique, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. Join the Wellness With Aaron community:
• Follow me on Instagram: @WellnessWithAaron
• Subscribe to my Newsletter: Get wellness tips delivered straight to your inbox.
• Book a Discovery Call: Ready to take charge of your health? Let’s chat!
Remember, a happy heart is a healthy heart. Let’s nurture it together!
In wellness,
Aaron
