Healthy Heart By Priority One Nutritional Supplements Overview & Drug Interactions

Calcium is a vital nutrient found in various foods such as dairy products, certain vegetables, and many fortified items. Over 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, predominantly as hydroxyapatite. The remaining calcium circulates in the blood, extracellular fluid, muscles, and other tissues, where it is essential for processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, vascular activities, glandular secretion, and maintaining cell membrane and capillary permeability. It also plays critical roles in enzyme reactions, respiration, kidney function, and blood clotting, and is involved in neurotransmitter and hormone release, amino acid uptake, vitamin B12 absorption, and gastrin secretion. Calcium balance changes with age: it is positive during periods of growth, stable in adulthood, and tends to become negative in older age. Calcium loss occurs through feces, urine, sweat, and shedding skin cells. In women, reduced estrogen levels decrease calcium absorption and retention, increase bone turnover, and lead to lower bone mass. Calcium supplements come in various forms, including citrate and carbonate, which differ mainly in their calcium content and absorption rates. Calcium citrate is easily absorbed and can be taken without food, making it suitable for older adults or those with low stomach acid. In contrast, calcium carbonate, which contains a higher percentage of calcium, is best absorbed when taken with meals.

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important physiological processes, including the contraction and relaxation of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of blood pressure. Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, and grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. There are several different forms of magnesium that are available as supplements, all of which can be used to prevent deficiency. Additionally, magnesium is purported to have several different health benefits, such as improving sleep, reducing muscle cramps, reducing anxiety, and preventing or treating migraines. Although magnesium is essential for health, magnesium-containing foods and supplements can interact with some prescription medications if used at the same time.

Selenium is an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in various physiological functions in the human body. It is often included in dietary supplements due to its antioxidant properties and its contribution to maintaining a healthy immune system. Selenium is important for thyroid function and may also have a role in protecting against certain chronic diseases. However, it's essential to note that excessive selenium intake can be harmful, so it's crucial to adhere to recommended daily allowances and consult with a healthcare professional before taking selenium supplements.

Chromium is a trace mineral that is found in small amounts in the human body. It is believed to play a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is used as a dietary supplement for its purported ability to help with weight loss and blood sugar control. There is some evidence to suggest that chromium supplements may help to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes, although the results of studies on this topic have been mixed. Some studies have found that chromium supplements can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels in those with poorly controlled diabetes, while others have found no significant effects.

L-tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid produced within the body through the conversion of the essential amino acid, phenylalanine. It is often used as a dietary supplement to support cognitive function, enhance focus, and mitigate stress by serving as a precursor for neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.

Choline is an essential nutrient that is found in many foods, including eggs, and is important for a number of bodily functions, including liver function, brain development, and nerve function. Choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in memory, mood, and muscle control. Choline also helps to transport fats out of the liver, which may help to reduce the risk of liver disease. Choline supplements are available in different forms, including choline bitartrate, choline chloride, and phosphatidylcholine. Choline bitartrate is the most common form of choline supplement, but phosphatidylcholine is the form that is found naturally in foods.

Hawthorn is a shrub native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is a member of the rose family and is known for its thorny branches and small, white or pink flowers, which bloom in the spring. The fruit, called a haw, is a small red berry that is edible and often used in traditional medicine. Hawthorn has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal discomfort, heart disease, high blood pressure, and chest pain. For its purported blood pressure-lowering abilities, it is thought to work by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow to the heart. Hawthorn dietary supplements are typically standardized extracts of the berry, leaf and flower of the plant.

Inositol is a type of carbohydrate (sugar alcohol) that is found in a variety of foods, including fruits, nuts, and grains. It is also known as vitamin B8 but is not considered 'essential' as it can be synthesized in the human body. Inositol is involved in a number of important physiological processes, including the metabolism of fats, the regulation of insulin, and the transmission of nerve impulses. Inositol is a popular dietary supplement and is believed to have a number of potential health benefits. It is thought to have a role in the treatment of certain mental health conditions, is believed to have a positive effect on cholesterol levels and may be helpful in the prevention or management of heart disease. In addition, inositol may have anti-inflammatory effects and may be helpful in the treatment of certain skin conditions.

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring compound that is made by the body and is also found in some foods, such as spinach, broccoli, and potatoes. It plays a role in energy production in the body and acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. ALA has been studied for its potential health benefits, including the treatment of certain types of nerve damage, diabetes, and liver disease.

Bromelain is a group of proteolytic enzymes derived from pineapples. It has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and protein-digesting properties. Some research suggests it may have potential benefits for conditions such as allergic rhinitis, burns, cancer, diabetic foot ulcers, and postoperative pain, among others. However, the evidence for its effectiveness in these areas is lacking, and more research is needed. It is important to note that bromelain should not be confused with other protein-digesting enzymes. Pregnant and lactating individuals should avoid using bromelain due to insufficient information about its safety in these populations.

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a naturally occurring substance that is found in every cell of the body and plays an essential role in energy production within the mitochondria, which are the powerhouse of the cells. CoQ10 also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. While CoQ10 is endogenous, meaning our body can produce it on its own, levels can decrease with age, with certain medications (e.g., statins) or due to certain medical conditions. In such cases, supplementation with CoQ10 may be beneficial. Additionally, CoQ10 supplements have been studied for a variety of health benefits, including improving heart health, reducing inflammation, and potentially even aiding in the treatment of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease. However, it's important to note that while some studies have shown potential benefits, the research on CoQ10 supplementation is still ongoing, and more studies are needed to fully understand its effects on the body.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is a tree native to Asia and is known for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves. The extract of the ginkgo leaf is commonly used in traditional medicine and is one of the most popular dietary supplements consumed worldwide. Its most common use is to help improve memory and cognitive function.

Methionine is an essential amino acid, meaning it must be obtained through the diet since the body cannot produce it on its own. It plays a crucial role in protein synthesis and various metabolic processes. Methionine is commonly found in protein-rich foods like meat, fish, dairy products, and certain plant-based sources, making it an important component of a balanced diet to support overall health and proper bodily functions.

Grapes are widely grown and cultivated for a variety of uses such as for food and beverage making (e.g., wine). They also have a long history of use in traditional medicine. The fruit and skin of grapes contain various compounds that are believed to have health benefits, including antioxidants such as resveratrol and flavonoids. These compounds may help to protect cells from damage and are purported to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. Grapes and grape products may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the body and potentially improve symptoms of certain conditions. Grape seed extracts are also commonly used as a dietary supplement and are often standardized according to the content of polyphenols or proanthocyanidins.