As we age, taking care of all aspects of our health becomes more important than ever. By prioritizing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate medical attention, you can give yourself the best chance of enjoying a long and healthy life with your loved ones. 

The heart is the engine that propels the body through the journey of life, and taking care of it is central to good health and overall wellbeing. In addition to the factors we mentioned above, moderate and judicious use of supplements can help to enhance heart health. 

In this post, we will discuss five supplements you might want to consider that can help you to maintain a robust and resilient cardiovascular system into your 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that are found in fish as well as some plant foods including flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts. Omega-3s are renowned for their cardiovascular benefits, having been shown to lower triglycerides (“bad” cholesterol), reduce blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease.

Research also suggests that Omega-3 supplements can help regulate heart rhythm, reduce inflammation in the arteries, and improve overall blood vessel function. 

The American Heart Association recommends consuming fatty fish twice per week to get your recommended dosage of Omega-3. If you don’t eat fish or struggle to get enough Omega-3s in your diet, incorporating a high-quality fish oil supplement into your routine can be a great choice to support your heart health.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a naturally occurring antioxidant that plays a crucial role in converting food into energy in the body, particularly in areas with high energy demands such as the muscles and heart. As individuals age, CoQ10 levels may decline, impacting the heart's ability to function optimally.

Supplementing with CoQ10 has been associated with improved heart function, particularly in individuals with heart problems. One study found that taking CoQ10 within 3 days of a heart attack was associated with lower risk of subsequent heart attacks and chest pain. 

Additionally, CoQ10's antioxidant properties help protect the heart from free radicals and oxidative stress, a contributing factor to cardiovascular disease. 

Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a role in hundreds of biochemical reactions within the body, including many of those related to heart health. As you age, magnesium levels in your body may decrease, potentially having a negative impact on cardiovascular function.

Research suggests that magnesium supplementation can help regulate heart rhythm and blood pressure and improve overall heart health. Moreover, magnesium plays a role in maintaining proper muscle function, including the heart muscle. 

Magnesium can be found in many foods including greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. However, you might also wish to supplement your intake to ensure you meet your daily recommended amounts of this vital mineral.

Grape Seed Extract

Grape seed extract is rich in antioxidants and compounds called oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs), and may have cardiovascular health benefits. 

Grape seed extract promotes the health of the blood vessels, a key part of the cardiovascular system. Some animal studies have indicated that it may be effective in treating heart disease, and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) suggest that it may help to reduce systolic blood pressure and heart rate. 

Grape seed extract is widely available as a dietary supplement. 

Garlic Extract

Far more than just a delicious addition to your culinary creations, garlic has long been recognized for its potential cardiovascular benefits. For example, it may lower blood pressure and help to prevent the formation of plaque in the arteries. 

Garlic may also lower cholesterol levels, with one study from 2016 indicating that taking garlic supplements for longer than two months can lower LDL (“bad” cholesterol) by up to 10%. 

Consuming garlic both in your food and as a supplement is a great addition to your routine to help promote good heart health. 

Worried About Your Heart Health?

Prioritizing heart health after the age of 50 is a proactive and crucial step towards maintaining overall health and wellbeing. While supplements can play a supportive role, it is also important to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, consult your healthcare professional if you have any concerns, and take advantage of any medical screenings that are offered to you. 

Embracing a heart-healthy lifestyle at any age will serve you well both in the immediate future and later in life, allowing you to enjoy an active and happy life well into your golden years.