Heart Health

 

The heart is the organ that pumps us with life. However, environmental factors can put undue stress on the heart. Baby aspirin may be a good choice for people at high risk of cardiovascular disease. CoQ10 and omega-3 fatty acid are other popular choice for supporting heart health as well. Continue reading to see all the supplements that can help support heart health.

 

Table of Contents

 

1. Over the Counter

1.1. Baby aspirin

2. Nutraceutical

2.1. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10, ubidecarenone)

2.2. Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ, methoxatin)

3. Herbal

3.1. Hawthorn (Crataegus)

3.2. Omega-3 fatty acid

 

Baby aspirin

 

Baby aspirin (81 mg) is typically taken to reduce the risk of heart attack by interfering with blood clotting. This requires a discussion with your doctor to assess your risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). ASCVD is when plaque builds up in the arterial walls and its disruption can lead to angina, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Daily aspirin should not be taken without consulting with a doctor due to the risk of internal bleeding.

 

CoQ10

 

CoQ10, commonly referred to as ubiquinone, play an important role in the mitochondria, helping to generate energy for the body. It can also act as an antioxidant to reduce the free-radicals that damage the body. Supplement in CoQ10 is thought to benefit mitochondrial and heart health and can be sourced from animal or plant products. It has also been suggested that CoQ10 can reduce the muscle breakdown and pain associated with statin therapy.

 

PQQ

 

PQQ is an enzyme cofactor, like CoQ10. It is found in food and act as an antioxidant. It is suggested to help improve mitochondrial, heart, and cognitive health. As a supplement, it is commonly found together with CoQ10 and can be sourced from plant products.

 

Hawthorn

 

Hawthorn is a shrub with the leaf, flower, or berry used medicinally to support heart health.

 

Omega-3 fatty acid

 

Omega-3 (ω−3) fatty acids includes docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and (eicosapentaenoic acid) EPA and are commonly found in fish and algae oils. Many plant and seed oils contain α-linolenic acid (ALA), which can be converted by the body into DHA and EPA. DHA/EPA was shown to help lower triglyceride levels. Omega-3 fatty acids are also suggested to help reduce inflammation and provide benefit to cognitive/mental health. Supplements may contain enteric coating to reduce fishiness.