Heart disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide, despite advancements in pharmacological and surgical treatments for cardiovascular diseases. Many of these conditions are preventable, yet reactive treatments like beta blockers, stents, and defibrillators continue to dominate. To truly combat this global epidemic, we must encourage people to adopt beneficial habits, healthy diets, and active lifestyles. Nutraceuticals and natural supplements may be part of the solution by addressing the root causes of cardiovascular disease and promoting better overall heart health.
The Science behind Vascular Problems
Western diets and sedentary lifestyles have been identified as contributing factors to heart disease. To counteract these, it’s crucial to understand the specific processes leading to hardened arteries, which significantly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Several mechanisms are responsible for arterial hardening and other degenerative cardiovascular processes. For example, free radicals from toxins or unhealthy foods encounter LDL cholesterol and oxidize it, fuelling inflammation, attracting macrophages, and leading to chronic inflammatory processes that create arterial plaque and harden blood vessels.
Arterial hardening is also closely related to osteoporosis. Both conditions stem from issues with calcium metabolism, as calcium is removed from bones and deposited on artery walls, contributing to atherosclerosis.
Another factor in atherosclerosis is the protein galectin-3, which elevates inflammation and fibrosis. Elevated levels of galectin-3 can cause inflammation and the progression of chronic inflammation to fibrosis in organs and tissues, including hardened arteries. In 2011, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of galectin-3 as an important marker for heart failure.
Heart-Healthy Solutions
Addressing these mechanisms with integrative solutions involves examining each one individually. Free radicals, for instance, are difficult to address due to the uncertainty surrounding the efficacy of antioxidant supplements in combating them. Some research has shown slight promise for antioxidant supplements like vitamins C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids, but study results have been inconsistent. However, antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits, possibly due to their high levels of polyphenols and other phytonutrients that perform essential health functions we’re only just beginning to understand.
Addressing issues with calcium metabolism is another approach to improve cardiovascular health. People suffering from osteoporosis and arterial calcification often share a lack of Vitamin K, which plays a key role in calcium distribution. Probiotic foods like natto and leafy greens can be an excellent source of Vitamin K, as can beneficial gut bacteria. Other potential supporters of healthy calcium metabolism include Vitamin D, which has long been associated with bone mineralization, and magnesium.
Elevated galectin-3 levels can be addressed using modified citrus pectin (MCP), a safe, well-tested agent that binds to the protein. MCP enters the circulation and blocks the effects of excess galectin-3, reducing fibrosis and associated vascular remodeling, among other benefits. Karolyn Gazella’s book “New Twist on Health: Modified Citrus Pectin for Cancer, Heart Disease and More” provides more information on MCP.
Supplements for Improved Circulation and Blood Pressure
Circulation issues, particularly high blood pressure, significantly impact heart health. Several supplements can support healthy circulation and help control elevated blood pressure. Nattokinase, an enzyme found in the Japanese fermented food natto, has demonstrated the ability to improve circulation through its anti-clotting activity. Studies have also found that nattokinase supplements can help control systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Another useful supplement is L-carnitine, which has been found to inhibit C-reactive protein, an important inflammatory marker. L-carnitine helps the body convert fat into energy, which can have obvious benefits for the heart. It also shows some promise as an antioxidant.
Hawthorn berry, medicinal mushrooms such as Ganoderma lucidum and Cordyceps sinensis, garlic, hibiscus, and CoQ10 have also been shown to lower blood pressure, support healthy cholesterol levels, and contain potent antioxidants.
The Role of Nutraceuticals in Heart Disease Prevention
Many health organizations are proactive in implementing preventative programs to help people adopt healthier habits. By incorporating dietary modifications and researched nutraceutical ingredients, we have the potential to elevate cardiovascular health to a higher level while offering significant benefits related to reduced inflammation, better circulation, and greater energy and vitality. Together, these methods can help in the fight against heart disease.
