Journal of Nutraceuticals and Health

Cardionutraceuticals

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Cardio nutraceuticals are active compounds from food that give heart health benefits beyond basic nutrition. They help to manage or prevent heart problems like heart failure, clogged arteries, and high blood pressure. You can find these compounds in many natural products, dietary supplements, and foods with added health perks.

Role of Nutraceuticals in Cardiovascular Health

Nutraceuticals play a role in heart health through several ways. They improve fat levels in the blood lower blood pressure, reduce damage from free radicals, and boost the function of blood vessel linings. People find them appealing because they come from natural sources and have few side effects. This makes them good options to use instead of or along with regular drugs. Some key nutraceuticals that help the heart include omega-3 fats, polyphenols, plant sterols, fiber, and coenzyme Q10.

Polyphenols: Found in fruits, veggies, tea, cocoa, and red wine, polyphenols like flavonoids and resveratrol pack a punch when it comes to antioxidants. They boost how well our blood vessels work, help control blood pressure, and cut down on inflammation. All these things lead to a healthier heart. Take resveratrol, for example. It's known to protect the heart by turning on certain genes that slow down how fast heart cells age.

Plant Sterols and Stanols: These compounds have a structure similar to cholesterol and are recognized for their ability to lower cholesterol levels. By competing with dietary cholesterol for absorption in the intestines, plant sterols and stanols can help decrease low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often called "bad cholesterol." Reducing LDL levels is linked to a lower risk of heart disease.

Dietary Fiber: Soluble fiber, which is present in oats, legumes, and fruits, is important for cardiovascular health as it helps lower LDL cholesterol levels. It works by binding with cholesterol in the digestive system, which prevents its absorption and encourages its excretion. Moreover, diets high in fiber assist in regulating blood sugar levels and supporting weight management, both of which are crucial for maintaining a healthy heart.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and Heart Function

CoQ10 is a natural antioxidant present in every cell of the body, especially abundant in the heart. It is crucial for energy production in the mitochondria, which is necessary for the heart's constant pumping action. Studies have indicated that CoQ10 supplementation can alleviate symptoms of congestive heart failure, lower blood pressure, and aid in recovery following cardiac surgery.

Minerals and Cardiovascular Health

Certain minerals play a crucial role in supporting cardiovascular health. Magnesium aids in regulating blood pressure, helps maintain a normal heart rhythm, and can decrease arterial stiffness. Potassium is important for balancing sodium levels in the body, which helps control blood pressure and lowers the risk of stroke. Calcium is involved in the contraction and relaxation of blood vessels, contributing to the maintenance of healthy blood pressure levels.