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- WebMD – Supplements and Coronary Artery disease:
“Sadly, research suggests that supplements – that is vitamins, minerals, herbs, and certain food extracts — can’t prevent or improve CAD, the most common type of heart disease. And, in certain specific cases, thay can be harmful.”
- Harvard Health Blog – Omega-3 fatty acids and the heart:
“A subsequent meta-analysis, which included data from over 10 studies, found fish oil omega‐3 supplements lowered risk for heart attack and death from coronary heart disease. In December 2020, the FDA approved the use of Vascepa to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in certain patients with, or at high risk for, CVD.”
- PeaceHealth – 8 heart health supplements to take and one to avoid:
“Numerous studies suggest positive association between taking vitamin and mineral supplements, and heart disease prevention. Vitamin and mineral supplements can be safe and inexpensive and may provide a health benefit. … Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a substance similar to a vitamin. It is found in every cell of the body.”
- Vitamin E and Heart Health:
“Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, which is generally beneficial for heart health. However, the high doses found in supplements can be harmful. …The proposal against vitamin E supplementation stems from two trials that showed an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke with doses of 111 and 200 IU/day. As a result, the U.S. Preventive Services Task force (USPSTF) recommends against using vitamin E to prevent cardiovascular disease.”
Table of Contents
- How to Promote heart Health Without Supplements
- Navigating Heart Health: A Dietitian’s Guide to Supplements and Meal Plans
- Navigating Heart Health: A Dietitian’s Guide to supplements and Meal Plans
In the quest for better health, many individuals turn to dietary supplements. However, not all supplements are created equal, and some may pose unexpected risks to heart health. Let’s delve into the potential dangers of calcium, energy or weight loss supplements, and beta-carotene.
2. Calcium: Not Always the Bone Booster
While calcium is crucial for bone health, excessive supplementation can backfire. According to Morris, “While calcium is important for bone health, taking calcium supplements may increase the risk of heart disease in healthy postmenopausal women.” This assertion is backed by a 2021 study published in Nutrients,which analyzed 13 randomized controlled trials. The findings were alarming: calcium supplements increased the risk of cardiovascular disease by 15% in healthy postmenopausal women. Berger elaborates, “Calcium may contribute to arterial calcification [hard calcium crystals building up on the artery walls], increasing the risk of heart disease.”
That said, calcium supplements can be beneficial under certain conditions. For instance, they help prevent osteoporosis, especially if one struggles to get enough calcium from dietary sources like dairy, dark leafy greens, fortified juices, or non-dairy milk. As always, its essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
3. Energy or Weight Loss Supplements: the Double-Edged Sword
Many energy or weight loss supplements contain stimulants like caffeine or ephedra-like compounds. Berger warns, “Many energy supplements or weight loss supplements contain stimulants like caffeine or ephedra-like compounds.” While some caffeine, such as that found in coffee or tea, is generally safe for heart health, supplements containing caffeine can have adverse effects. Moderate consumption of coffee and tea may even reduce the risk of heart health issues. However, caffeine-containing supplements can strain the cardiovascular system, leading to raised blood pressure and heart rate, and perhaps increasing the risk of heart disease.
4. Beta-Carotene: The Antioxidant with a Caveat
Beta-carotene is an antioxidant worth incorporating into your diet. It acts as a precursor to vitamin A and has numerous health benefits. However, like othre supplements, it shoudl be consumed with caution. while beta-carotene is generally safe, excessive intake can lead to health complications.It’s best to get beta-carotene from natural sources like carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach rather than supplements.
Key Points Summary
| Supplement | Potential Risks | Benefits |
|——————|—————————————————————————————————-|————————————————————————————————-|
| Calcium | Increased risk of heart disease in healthy postmenopausal women | Prevents osteoporosis, essential for bone health |
| Energy/Weight Loss | Strain on cardiovascular system, raised blood pressure and heart rate, increased heart disease risk | Aids in weight loss and energy boost |
| Beta-Carotene | Excessive intake can lead to health complications | Acts as an antioxidant, beneficial for vision and immune function |
Conclusion
While dietary supplements can offer numerous health benefits, it’s crucial to be aware of their potential risks. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. By making informed decisions,you can optimize your health journey safely and effectively.
Call to Action
Ready to take control of your health? Start by educating yourself about the supplements you’re considering. Consult with a healthcare provider to ensure you’re making the best choices for your unique needs.Your health is a journey—let’s make it a safe and informed one.
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supplements to Avoid for Heart Health: A Thorough Guide
Heart health is a top priority for many,and while supplements promise a variety of benefits,some can be detrimental to cardiovascular well-being. Let’s delve into the key supplements that experts recommend avoiding for heart health.
Beta-carotene, found in yellow, orange, or green leafy vegetables as well as tomatoes, is often hailed for its potential health benefits. Though,taking a beta-carotene supplement can pose significant risks. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) concluded that beta-carotene can be harmful, particularly for smokers. Studies show that taking a 20- or 30-milligram beta-carotene supplement daily increases the risk of death from cardiovascular disease among smokers. The potential harm might potentially be due to interactions with other compounds in tobacco smoke.
Licorice: Not So Sweet for the Heart
Licorice supplements,often promoted for digestive health,menopause,cough,and infections,lack sufficient research to support these claims. Moreover, they can be dangerous for heart health. Licorice supplements contain glycyrrhizin, an enzyme that causes the body to retain sodium and lead to high blood pressure. This is especially dangerous if you already have high blood pressure.
“Licorice supplements, or supplements containing licorice as a secondary ingredient, should be avoided for heart health sence they contain glycyrrhizin, an enzyme that can cause the body to retain sodium and lead to high blood pressure,” says Michelle Routhenstein, M.S., RD, CDCES, CDN, a preventive cardiology dietitian.
Red Yeast Rice: A Risky Cholesterol Solution
Red yeast rice is often marketed as a natural cholesterol-lowering supplement. Though, the active ingredient, monacolin K, is associated with a high risk of muscle, kidney, and liver damage.Monacolin K is structurally the same as lovastatin, a cholesterol-lowering drug.
“While many people look to the supplement market for a cholesterol-lowering option, red yeast rice should be avoided. The active ingredient in red yeast rice that helps to lower cholesterol is called monacolin K, which is associated with a high risk of muscle, kidney and liver damage,” says Routhenstein.
Key Supplements to Avoid for Heart Health
| Supplement | Potential Risks |
|———————|——————————————————-|
| Beta-Carotene | Increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease for smokers |
| Licorice | high blood pressure |
| Red Yeast Rice | Muscle, kidney, and liver damage |
Conclusion
Maintaining heart health is crucial, and while supplements may seem like an easy solution, they can sometimes do more harm than good. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. Stay informed and prioritize your heart health by avoiding these potentially harmful supplements.
Stay tuned for more insights on heart health and!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any changes to your supplement regimen.
How to Promote heart Health Without Supplements
Heart health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and maintaining a healthy heart doesn’t necessarily require supplements.There are several expert-approved ways to promote heart health naturally. Let’s dive into some effective strategies.
Get Moving: The Power of Physical Activity
Physical activity is a cornerstone of heart health. It strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood flow, and reduces the risk of heart attacks. Regular exercise also helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, making it an essential part of any heart-healthy routine. whether you prefer walking, dancing, or weightlifting, incorporating any form of physical activity you enjoy into your weekly routine can have significant benefits.
Manage stress: The Impact on Blood pressure and Inflammation
Stress is a common culprit behind high blood pressure and inflammation, both of which can negatively impact heart health. Finding ways to manage stress is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart.This can include engaging in physical activity, socializing, getting adequate sleep, meditating, or finding a fun hobby. Managing stress not only improves heart health but also enhances overall well-being.
Prioritize sleep: The Importance of Adequate Rest
Inadequate sleep can increase the risk of high blood pressure, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It can also lead to increased inflammation, stress, and poor dietary choices, which can worsen heart health.Establishing a relaxing sleep routine and prioritizing adequate sleep is essential for overall heart health. Try incorporating a calming bedtime routine to improve the quality and quantity of your sleep.
a Heart-Healthy Diet: The Role of Nutrition
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is consistently linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Besides fruits and veggies, it’s also beneficial to prioritize whole grains, lean proteins, and non-tropical vegetable oils. These dietary choices can substantially improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart-related issues.
key Strategies for Heart Health
| Strategy | Benefits |
|——————————-|————————————————————————-|
| Physical Activity | Strengthens heart muscle, improves blood flow, reduces heart attack risk |
| Manage Stress | Lowers blood pressure, reduces inflammation |
| Prioritize Sleep | Reduces risk of high blood pressure, improves overall health |
| Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet | lowers risk of chronic diseases, improves overall health |
Conclusion
Promoting heart health doesn’t have to involve supplements. By incorporating physical activity, managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and eating a heart-healthy diet, you can significantly improve your heart health and overall well-being. Start making these changes today and take control of your heart health naturally.
For more tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, visit eatingwell.
In the quest for a healthier heart, many individuals turn to supplements to boost their cardiovascular health. However, not all supplements are created equal, and some may even pose risks when taken in high doses. Dietitians caution against certain supplements that could potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Let’s delve into the specifics and understand which supplements to avoid and how to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle.
The Supplements to Avoid
According to dietitians, several supplements should be approached with caution. These include:
- Vitamin E
- Calcium
- Energy or Weight loss Supplements
- Beta-Carotene
- Licorice
- Red Yeast Rice
While some of these, such as calcium, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, are beneficial when consumed as part of a balanced diet, high doses from supplements can be detrimental. As a notable example, excessive calcium intake can lead to arterial calcification, which is linked to heart disease.
Why Avoid These Supplements?
high doses of these supplements can interfere with normal bodily functions and increase the risk of cardiovascular issues. Such as, vitamin E can thin the blood, which may increase the risk of bleeding. Similarly, beta-carotene supplements have been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers.
The Heart-Healthy Approach
Instead of relying on potentially harmful supplements, focus on adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle. This includes:
- staying Active: Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining heart health.Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
- Eating a Heart-Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can significantly improve heart health.Avoid processed foods and limit your intake of sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
- Managing Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health. Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or other relaxation methods.
- Getting enough Sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for overall health, including heart health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
Heart-Healthy Meal Plan
For those looking to adopt a heart-healthy diet, a 7-Day Heart-Healthy Meal Plan created by a dietitian can be a great starting point. This meal plan focuses on nutrient-dense foods that support heart health and can be easily integrated into daily life.
Table: Key Supplements to Avoid and Their Risks
| Supplement | Potential Risk |
|——————|—————————————-|
| Vitamin E | Increased bleeding risk |
| | Arterial calcification |
| Energy/Weight Loss | Side effects and interactions |
| Beta-Carotene | Increased lung cancer risk in smokers |
| Licorice | High blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances |
| Red Yeast Rice | Similar to statins, may cause muscle pain |
Conclusion
Promoting heart health requires a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. While certain supplements may seem beneficial, it’s crucial to be cautious and consult with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine. By focusing on these fundamental lifestyle changes,you can significantly improve your heart health and overall well-being.
For more insights on heart-healthy diets, check out the best diets for heart health ranked by cardiologists.
Stay informed and take control of your heart health today!
Prioritize sleep: Teh Importance of Adequate Rest
Inadequate sleep can increase the risk of high blood pressure, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It can also lead to increased inflammation,stress,and poor dietary choices,which can worsen heart health. Establishing a relaxing sleep routine and prioritizing adequate sleep is essential for overall heart health. Try incorporating a calming bedtime routine to improve the quality and quantity of your sleep.
A heart-Healthy Diet: The Role of Nutrition
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is consistently linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Besides fruits and vegetables, itS also beneficial to prioritize whole grains, lean proteins, and non-tropical vegetable oils. These dietary choices can substantially improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart-related issues.
Key Strategies for Heart Health
| Strategy | Benefits |
|————————-|———————————|
| Physical Activity | Strengthens heart muscle, improves blood flow, reduces heart attack risk |
| Manage Stress | Lowers blood pressure, reduces inflammation |
| Prioritize Sleep | Reduces risk of high blood pressure, improves overall health |
| Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet | Lowers risk of chronic diseases, improves overall health |
Conclusion
Promoting heart health doesn’t have to involve supplements. By incorporating physical activity, managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and eating a heart-healthy diet, you can considerably improve your heart health and overall well-being. Start making these changes today and take control of your heart health naturally.
For more tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, visit eatingwell.
In the quest for a healthier heart, many individuals turn to supplements to boost their cardiovascular health.Though, not all supplements are created equal, and some may even pose risks when taken in high doses. Dietitians caution against certain supplements that could potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Let’s delve into the specifics and understand which supplements to avoid and how to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle.
The Supplements to Avoid
According to dietitians, several supplements should be approached with caution. These include:
- Vitamin E
- Calcium
- Energy or Weight Loss Supplements
- Beta-Carotene
- Licorice
- Red Yeast Rice
While some of these, such as calcium, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, are beneficial when consumed as part of a balanced diet, high doses from supplements can be detrimental.As a notable example, excessive calcium intake can lead to arterial calcification, which is linked to heart disease.
Why Avoid These Supplements?
High doses of these supplements can interfere with normal bodily functions and increase the risk of cardiovascular issues. Such as, vitamin E can thin the blood, which may increase the risk of bleeding. Similarly, beta-carotene supplements have been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers.
The Heart-Healthy Approach
Instead of relying on potentially harmful supplements, focus on adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle. This includes:
- Staying Active: Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining heart health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
- Eating a Heart-Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can significantly improve heart health. Avoid processed foods and limit your intake of sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
- Managing Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health. Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or other relaxation methods.
- Getting Enough Sleep: adequate sleep is essential for overall health, including heart health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
Heart-Healthy Meal Plan
For those looking to adopt a heart-healthy diet,a 7-Day heart-Healthy Meal Plan created by a dietitian can be a great starting point. This meal plan focuses on nutrient-dense foods that support heart health and can be easily integrated into daily life.
Table: Key Supplements to Avoid and Their Risks
| Supplement | Potential Risk |
|—————–|——————————–|
| Vitamin E | Increased bleeding risk |
| | Arterial calcification |
| Energy/Weight Loss | Side effects and interactions |
| Beta-Carotene | Increased lung cancer risk in smokers |
| Licorice | High blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances |
| Red Yeast Rice | Similar to statins, may cause muscle pain |
Conclusion
Promoting heart health requires a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. While certain supplements may seem beneficial, it’s crucial to be cautious and consult with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine.By focusing on these basic lifestyle changes, you can significantly improve your heart health and overall well-being.
For more insights on heart-healthy diets, check out the best diets for heart health ranked by cardiologists.
Stay informed and take control of your heart health today!
