This Morning: Dr Chris discusses heart disease
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There are thousands of supplements on the market, and a lot of the time it can be difficult to find what’s genuinely right for you. But aiming to have a healthy heart doesn’t have to be difficult – there are a number of helpful supplements out there that work best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Psyllium fibre
There is evidence that Psyllium fibre may help lower cholesterol when used with a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fat.
If you choose to take a fibre supplement, be sure you don’t inadvertently purchase a laxative supplement instead – the labels on both types of supplements may say something like “regulates bowel patterns”.
Fibre is also useful, when used in conjunction with diet and exercise, for aiding to weight loss.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are found in oil from certain types of fish, vegetables, and other plant sources.
These fatty acids are not made by the body and must be consumed in the diet or through supplements, often ‘fish oil’.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids work by lowering the body’s production of triglycerides.
High levels of triglycerides can lead to coronary artery disease, heart disease, and stroke.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids used together with diet and exercise help lower triglyceride levels in the blood.
Magnesium
Low magnesium levels can be a predictor of heart disease, research has revealed.
Low magnesium has been linked with cardiovascular risk factors such as: high blood pressure, arterial plaque build-up, calcification of soft tissues, cholesterol and hardening of the arteries.
Magnesium comes in a number of forms, including, magnesium citrate , magnesium gluconate, magnesium hydroxide. Ask your pharmacist which is the best option for your issues.
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Avoid: Choline
Having excess choline, an essential nutrient found in eggs, meat and milk, can raise levels of a bacteria produced compound called trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), and the tendency of platelets to clump together and form clots.
Excessive blood clotting can limit and/or block blood flow, which can cause heart attacks and strokes.
Numerous studies have also shown that higher blood levels of TMAO are associated with a greater risk of heart disease.
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