Heart Health Supplements: What Works, What Doesn’t

Nearly half of all adults in the United States have some form of cardiovascular disease, making it the leading cause of death for both men and women. With so many seeking ways to support their heart health, the supplement market is flooded with options. But do these pills, potions, and powders actually deliver on their promises? Experts say not all supplements are created equal – and some could even be harmful.

“For most people, there is no single ‘must-take’ supplement for the heart,” says Dr. Tiffany DiPietro, a quadruple board-certified cardiologist. “The best-supported options tend to be condition-specific.”

Heart Helpers: Supplements Worth Considering

Psyllium Husk Powder

Psyllium husk is a fiber supplement commonly known for relieving constipation. It works by absorbing excess liquid in the gut and adding bulk to stool. However, its benefits extend beyond digestive health. Studies suggest psyllium husk can lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. It may also support gut health and facilitate regulate blood sugar levels after meals.

“It’s often a great ‘supplement-like’ add-on for cardiometabolic risk, especially if dietary fiber intake is low,” DiPietro notes.

CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10)

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like antioxidant that helps cells produce energy and protects them from damage. While the body naturally produces CoQ10, many people take it as a supplement to boost energy and support heart health. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals taking statins who experience muscle aches or fatigue.

“If you’re going to take one “heart-focused” supplement, this is often my top pick — especially for people on statins who notice muscle aches or fatigue,” says DiPietro. “It’s not a substitute for controlling cholesterol or blood pressure, but it can be a helpful add-on for the right person.”

CoQ10 has also been recommended to improve symptoms in heart failure patients and aid recovery after a heart attack.

Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in numerous bodily functions, including maintaining a steady heartbeat, regulating blood pressure, and controlling inflammation. Many American adults don’t get enough magnesium through their diet, potentially leading to deficiency. Supplementation can be helpful in these cases.

“But routine supplementation without a reason isn’t always necessary,” DiPietro cautions. “I like checking intake, medications, gastrointestinal tolerance and kidney function first.”

Heart Breakers: Supplements to Avoid

“If someone has cardiovascular disease, arrhythmias, uncontrolled blood pressure, heart failure or is on anticoagulants or antiarrhythmics I get particularly cautious with [these supplements],” DiPietro said.

Stimulants and Weight-Loss Supplements

Marketed for energy boosts, metabolism acceleration, appetite suppression, or fat burning, these supplements can raise blood pressure, trigger palpitations, and disrupt heart rhythm.

Vitamin E or Beta-Carotene “for the Heart”

While antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene are crucial for overall health, there’s no conclusive evidence they specifically benefit the heart. High doses of vitamin E may even increase the risk of heart failure, hemorrhagic stroke, and death.

“They aren’t recommended for cardiovascular disease prevention,” DiPietro emphasizes. “Various guidelines note their harms and lack of benefit.”

Licorice Root

Whether consumed in supplements or teas, licorice root can raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels – a dangerous combination for many heart patients.

Certain Herbal Supplements

For individuals taking blood thinners like warfarin, certain herbal supplements – including ginkgo, ginseng, and high-dose garlic extract – can increase the risk of bleeding.

“They’re not always ‘forbidden,’ but they require real medication review,” DiPietro notes.

The Bottom Line

Before adding any supplement to your routine, even those potentially beneficial, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor.

“For anyone with heart disease or rhythm issues, I’d rather they ask their physician “is this safe with my meds?” before adding anything over the counter,” DiPietro emphasizes.