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Love Your Heart: Heart Health Essentials
The heart is an important organ that plays a key role in overall well-being. It pumps blood and supplies oxygen throughout our body as well as regulates blood pressure. However, we tend to neglect and forget about its importance. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), coronary heart disease and stroke both contribute to death. Thus, we must take care of our hearts through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. Let’s share some tips to maintain good heart health.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant that the body produces naturally to play a vital role in energy production within our cells, particularly in the heart. One remarkable study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that CoQ10 supplementation improved heart function in patients with chronic heart failure. Moreover, natural CoQ10 levels in the body will reduce due to commonly prescribed statins, causing fatigue and muscle pain. Therefore, taking CoQ10 supplements can lessen these side effects, allowing patients to continue their cholesterol-lowering treatment.
Lecithin
Lecithin, a fatty substance present in foods such as soybeans, eggs, and sunflower seeds, is mandatory for heart health. It has the potential to reduce cholesterol levels. For instance, a study found that individuals who consumed soy lecithin experienced reduction in both total cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol) levels. Furthermore, lecithin has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation of arteries.
Fish oil
Fish oil can be found in salmon, sardines and mackerel, and is a dietary supplement. It contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), well-recognized for their various health benefits. Regularly consuming fish oil can bring down triglyceride levels, these results were shown in several studies. Additionally, fish oil possess anti-inflammatory effects which can decrease arterial inflammation, thus, prevent the development and progression of heart disease.
Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo is a well-known herbal supplement that is beneficial to heart health by its ability to enhance blood circulation. Its extract can widen blood vessels and lower blood viscosity, thereby blood flow is improved. Hence, blood pressure can be controlled, leading to lower risk of heart disease.
Sacha Inchi Oil
Sacha inchi oil is a plant-based oil derived from the seeds of the Sacha Inchi plant. It contains omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids, which makes it a great source for beneficial fats. It can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation as well as decrease cholesterol level. This is crucial for preventing the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
In conclusion, there are various types of supplements available in the market to help maintain good heart health. You can visit nearby Caring Pharmacy outlets to find out more.
References:
- World Health Organization: WHO. (2019, June 11). Cardiovascular diseases. https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases#tab=tab_1
- Mortensen, S. A., Rosenfeldt, F., Kumar, A., Dolliner, P., Filipiak, K. J., Pella, D., Alehagen, U., Steurer, G., & Littarru, G. P. (2014). The effect of coenzyme Q 10 on morbidity and mortality in chronic heart failure. JACC Heart Failure, 2(6), 641–649. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jchf.2014.06.008
- Mourad, A. M., de Carvalho Pincinato, E., Mazzola, P. G., Sabha, M., & Moriel, P. (2010). Influence of soy lecithin administration on hypercholesterolemia. Cholesterol, 2010, 824813. https://doi.org/10.1155/2010/824813
- Bornfeldt K. E. (2021). Triglyceride lowering by omega-3 fatty acids: a mechanism mediated by N-acyl taurines. The Journal of clinical investigation, 131(6), e147558. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI147558
- Ld, A. H. R. (2022, December 14). 12 Benefits of Ginkgo biloba (Plus Side effects & Dosage). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ginkgo-biloba-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3
- Rd, R. a. M. (2021, June 11). What is sacha inchi? Uses, benefits, side effects, and forms. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-is-sacha-inchi#benefits
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