Centrum Cardio is a multivitamin designed to promote a healthier heart by helping lower your blood cholesterol levels and keeping your cardiovascular system in optimal shape. What makes the formulation of Centrum Cardio different than its other products is the inclusion of phytosterols, which are typically not found in other multivitamins.
About the Company
Centrum is a division of Pfizer, Inc., a large pharmaceutical company with corporate offices in New York City. In addition to Centrum Cardio, Pfizer makes and markets nine different multivitamin formulas tailored to consumers' needs based on age, gender, level of activity and specific health needs. As the name of the product implies, Centrum Cardio appeals to consumers concerned about heart health.
Ingredients
Centrum Cardio contains a comprehensive list of vitamins, including vitamins A, C, D, E and K and the vitamin B family -- B 6, B 12, niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, folic acid and biotin. Minerals in Centrum Cardio include calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, iodine, selenium, zinc, copper, manganese, chromium, chloride, potassium and molybdenum. Centrum Cardio also contains 400mg phytosterols for every one-tablet serving.
Use
The manufacturer recommends taking one tablet twice daily with meals. Centrum Cardio isn't formulated for children; also, if you take other medications or are pregnant or nursing, talk to your physician before taking this supplement. Centrum Cardio is classified as a dietary supplement by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and should not be taken to treat or cure your health problems. If you have high blood cholesterol or suffer from heart disease, don't use Centrum Cardio or any other dietary supplement in lieu of your regular medication.
Phytosterols
"Phytosterols" is a term that encompasses plant sterols and stenols, which can be added to various foods and supplements. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, phytosterols block the absorption of cholesterol in your body. As a result, this lowers your low-density cholesterol or "bad" cholesterol levels, reducing your risk for heart disease. Foods that are naturally rich in phytosterols include peas, beans, unrefined vegetable oils, nuts and whole grains.
Other Information
The modern Western diet is considerably disparate from those of our distant ancestors, who subsisted on foods rich in fiber, plant protein and phytosterols. If you're battling high cholesterol, you should strive to get at least 2g phytosterols each day, says MayoClinic.Com. In addition to supplements that contain phytosterols, there are foods available on the market with added sterols and stanols, such as margarines, juices and yogurt drinks. As noted above, dietary supplements should never be treated as medication but rather a way to support your existing diet to ensure that your nutritional needs are met. If you're concerned about heart health, ask your doctor if Centrum Cardio is the right supplement for you.
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