Cardiovascular

Omega-3 fatty acids and the heart

EPA and DHA are omega-3 fatty acids found mainly in oily fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel. Under EU-authorized claims, EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart.

If grilled salmon is not on your table twice a week, an omega-3 supplement is one of the simplest ways to bring these fats into your diet.

Potassium and magnesium: minerals that keep things in balance

Potassium contributes to the maintenance of normal blood pressure, and it is plentiful in bananas, potatoes, beans, spinach and avocados. Many Americans eat far more sodium than potassium, so shifting toward produce helps on both fronts.

Magnesium, found in nuts, seeds and whole grains, contributes to normal muscle function, and the heart is a muscle that never takes a day off.

Garlic, hawthorn and coenzyme Q10

Garlic has been valued in kitchens and traditional medicine for thousands of years and is a popular ingredient in heart formulas. Hawthorn, a shrub in the rose family, has a long history in European herbal practice for supporting the heart and circulation.

Coenzyme Q10 is a compound the body makes on its own and uses in energy production inside cells; small amounts come from meat and fish. Many people like to add it to their heart support plan.

Lifestyle habits that make the biggest difference

Aim for around 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, keep salty processed foods in check and know your numbers from regular blood pressure readings. A supplement is a helpful companion to these habits, not a replacement.