Cardiovascular disease, also known as heart disease or coronary artery disease (CAD), is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to Natalie Butler. Diet and lifestyle play an important role in preventing and reversing heart disease, and certain herbs and supplements can help lower your risk of heart disease as well as treat heart conditions that have already been diagnosed. Furthermore, several herbs and supplements may aid in the prevention of atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of the majority of heart diseases. Atherosclerosis causes plaque to build up in your arteries, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching your heart and other organs. It can result in a heart attack or even death. The good news is some nutritional supplements may help reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10 or ubiquinone, is a chemical that plays an important role in a cell's ability to extract energy from food. Because the heart is the hardest working muscle in your body, it is critical that it has a steady supply of CoQ10 so that it can do its job. This chemical depletes with age and is also depleted by low cholesterol. Omega-3 fatty acids are important nutrients that aid in the reduction of inflammation caused by atherosclerosis. They also lower triglyceride levels, which are fatty blood components that block your arteries. Triglyceride levels that are too high have been linked to atherosclerosis and diabetes. Based on research by Azin Mohebi-Nejad in 2014, consuming omega-3 fatty acids, which are commonly found in fish, is associated with lower blood pressure, better blood lipid profiles, including lower triglycerides, and a lower risk of death from heart disease.

Green tea has been consumed for centuries for its health benefits by people all over the world. This study investigates the antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), one of its main components, for its ability to protect the heart. The study found that drinking five to six cups of green tea per day provided significant benefits. Green tea extract is also available in capsule form as a supplement. Pomegranate juice, like green tea, has been consumed for centuries in the belief that the ruby red fruit promotes health. This study by modern scientists proves this belief. Pomegranate fruit and juice contain potent antioxidant chemicals that may help reverse atherosclerosis and lower blood pressure.

In the United States, heart disease is a serious and dangerous disease. Reduce risk factors for heart disease by maintaining a healthy blood pressure and cholesterol level, managing stress, eating healthily, and getting plenty of exercise. Herbs and supplements can help prevent and treat heart disease by lowering blood pressure, improving breathing, and improving heart function.

DMO II Marie-Claire Gaas, RND

References:

1. Herbs and Supplements for Heart Disease

Medically reviewed by Natalie Butler, R.D., L.D. — By Dale Kiefer — Updated on September 1, 2017

https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-disease/herbs-supplements

2. Omega-3 Supplements and Cardiovascular Diseases

Azin Mohebi-Nejad and Behnood Bikdeli corresponding author