What Happens to Your Heart When You Take These 8 Supplements

Protecting your heart helps lower your risk of serious problems like heart disease and stroke. Some heart-healthy supplements, such as fiber, red yeast rice, and garlic, may also support cardiovascular health, but check with a healthcare provider before adding them to your routine. 

1. Fiber

Fiber is a plant-based carbohydrate that moves quickly through the digestive tract. It helps to remove cholesterol, lowering your total cholesterol levels. Fiber also has anti-inflammatory effects, which benefit heart health and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. 

Fiber is available as a supplement, known as psyllium fiber. Studies show that adding psyllium fiber to your diet may lower blood triglyceride and cholesterol levels, and reduce your risk of heart disease over time. 

Fiber-rich foods include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. However, note that increasing your fiber intake without adding water could cause uncomfortable cramping. 

2. Red Yeast Rice

Research shows that red yeast rice has effects similar to lovastatin, a cholesterol-lowering medication. Red yeast rice supplements may help lower your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease. It is difficult to determine how much red yeast rice can lower cholesterol levels, and its effect may vary by type and brand.

However, red yeast rice contains a chemical that may harm the kidneys. Do not take red yeast rice without talking with your healthcare provider and undergoing kidney function tests.

3. Garlic

Garlic can be enjoyed raw or cooked, and it’s also available in supplement form. Studies show that taking garlic supplements may lower blood pressure and reduce blood cholesterol levels. 

However, garlic supplements may interact with certain prescription medications, including blood thinners. If you are currently taking a blood thinner for heart health, do not add garlic to your regular diet. 

4. Folate

Taking a folate (vitamin B9) supplement may improve your heart health if you have a folate deficiency, which raises your risk of heart disease. Low folate levels may cause your body to produce too much homocysteine, an amino acid that increases stroke risk. Increasing your folate intake can reduce homocysteine levels and lower stroke risk.

There are foods rich in folate, which include:

• Green leafy vegetables
• Legumes
• Eggs
• Fortified cereals

However, taking high doses may harm your heart, especially if you have coronary artery stents. Discuss the benefits and risks of a folate supplement with your healthcare provider. 

5. Magnesium

The heart needs an adequate amount of magnesium to function properly and regulate its rhythm. Low magnesium levels can raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. 

Research shows that taking a magnesium supplement may lower blood pressure in people with high blood pressure (hypertension). However, a magnesium supplement could cause kidney problems if you have kidney disease. Do not start a magnesium supplement before discussing it with your healthcare provider. 

6. Fish Oil

Fish oil is a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in certain fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna. Most studies that have found heart benefits from omega-3s focus on adding fish to the diet rather than taking a fish oil supplement. 

People who regularly eat fish with omega-3 fatty acids are at a lower risk of heart attack and stroke. They may also have lower blood pressure and blood triglyceride levels.

However, research found that people with heart disease who take a regular fish oil supplement are more likely to develop atrial fibrillation, a condition that causes a rapid, irregular heartbeat. Speak with your healthcare provider to learn if you are at risk. 

7. Green Tea Extract

Drinking green tea regularly has several potential health benefits, including less inflammation and a lower risk of heart disease. Green tea contains antioxidants that may:

• Prevent cell damage
• Reduce your total cholesterol levels
• Support healthy blood pressure 

Green tea is available as a supplement in the form of green tea extract. The extract form provides a concentrated dose of green tea, which may cause liver toxicity in high doses. It also contains caffeine, which may cause side effects in those sensitive to it. 

While taking green tea extract may lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health, it is important to discuss it with your healthcare provider first, especially if you have a history of liver disease. 

8. Vitamins A, C, and K

Certain vitamin deficiencies may raise your heart disease risk. Taking a supplement can correct a vitamin deficiency and support overall health. Studies show that taking the following vitamins may improve heart health when correcting a deficiency:

• Vitamin A: One study found that taking a vitamin A (beta carotene) supplement may lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels in the arteries. It may also reduce the risk of heart disease and obesity. However, high doses of beta carotene may raise your risk of dying from heart disease. 
• Vitamin C: This antioxidant may protect the blood vessels from damage and inflammation. More research is needed to determine if this supplement significantly improves heart health.
• Vitamin K: Taking a vitamin K supplement may improve blood vessel health and reduce inflammation. People who eat diets rich in vitamin K may be at a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. Vitamin K can interact with blood thinners, reducing their effectiveness. Discuss with your healthcare provider first.