Heart Healthy Supplements

Scientists have concluded that the best way to improve your heart health is through lifestyle changes--eat well, quit smoking and exercise. Supplements may help lower your risk of disease by treating the underlying causes such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Of course, consult with your physician before taking any supplement or starting a new exercise regimen.

Potassium for High Blood Pressure

Maintaining a blood pressure less than 140/90 is essential for a healthy heart. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), having high blood pressure is the leading risk factor for stroke. Potassium has been shown to lower blood pressure and is an important supplement for heart health. There are no symptoms, so it is imperative that you get your pressure checked often to avoid this "silent killer."

Psyllium for High Cholesterol

High cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) contributes to an unhealthy heart. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition recommends reducing your number by increasing your psyllium intake. In 1998, the U.S. Food and Drug administration began allowing foods containing psyllium husk to carry the claim that soluble fiber may reduce the risk of heart disease. Consuming psyllium twice a day along with a healthy diet may be a substitute for prescribed cholesterol-lowering medicines.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

A supplement the AHA does approve of is omega-3 fatty acids. There is scientific evidence that fish consumption is associated with a decreased incidence of cardiovascular disease. The AHA advises those without heart disease to consume a variety of healthy fish like salmon, trout and herring. People with a form of heart disease can consume approximately one gram of EPA/DHA supplements in lieu of food. Those with high triglycerides (blood fats) can safely use two to four grams.

Antioxidants

According to the AHA, there is no conclusive evidence that antioxidants improve cardiovascular health in any way. Although there have been studies performed using placebos and vitamins A, E, and C, the observations do not establish a cause and effect conclusion. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants--like plant-based foods and vegetable oils--is highly recommended instead.

Risks

The AHA recommends mindfulness of the dietary recommended intakes and drug interactions when taking supplements. According to eVitamin's drug interaction guide, people taking potassium chloride drugs should not eat large amounts of high-potassium fruit or consume salt substitutes while taking medication. Vitamin E should not be taken with chemotherapy drugs or aspirin. Too much of any vitamin or supplement can be toxic to your body.