Vitamins play an important role in maintaining a healthy heart and cardiovascular system. Eating a wide range of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats and fish provides important vitamins that support and protect the heart. The best source of these vitamins is a balanced diet, but vitamin supplements can help you get any vitamins lacking in your diet. Always consult with your health care provider before taking any supplements, especially if you are taking any medications.
Omega-3 and -6 Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and -6 are cardio protective. Omega-3 fatty acids are linked to reduced risk of sudden death from heart attack, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least two times a week because it is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are heart-healthy vitamins that benefit both healthy individuals and those who have cardiovascular disease. They decrease triglyceride levels and reduce the growth rate of plaque that builds up in the heart, according to the AHA.
Omega-6 fatty acids are found in vegetable oils, nuts and seeds. They are part of a heart-healthy diet and may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C may reduce your risk of heart disease, according to MayoClinic.com. Vitamin C prevents low-density lipoprotein cholesterol -- LDL, the bad cholesterol -- from building plaque on the arterial walls narrowing the pathway for blood to the heart.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another heart-healthy vitamin. It also reduces LDL cholesterol, reducing your risk of heart disease. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects the cells against free radicals, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Free radicals contribute to the development of heart disease. By protecting the cells against free radicals, vitamin E helps reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D supplementation can help reduce your risk of heart disease. A study published in the Jan. 29, 2008, NIH Public Access Author Manuscripts found vitamin D deficiency increased the risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, heart failure and ischemic heart disease. The authors concluded vitamin D is a cardioprotective vitamin.
References
- University Maryland Medical Center: Coronary Artery Disease-Prevention
- American Heart Association: Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- American Heart Association: Omega-6 Fatty Acids -- Science Advisory
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin E
- National Institutes of Health: Vitamin D Deficiency and Risk for Cardiovascular Disease
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