Vitamins are essential nutrients your body requires for normal growth and development. You can usually get the vitamins you need from the foods you eat or a supplement. If you do not take in sufficient amounts of vitamins, you may be at risk for health problems, including heart conditions. It is important to consume a sufficient quantity of specific vitamins that can benefit your heart, but consult your health care provider about the use of supplements to avoid overconsumption, which can cause problems.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is an essential vitamin that may play a role in your heart health. If you fail to consume enough vitamin B6, the level of homocysteine, an amino acid, in your blood can rise. According to the National Institutes of Health, research indicates that an increased level of homocysteine may be a risk factor for stroke and heart disease; however, evidence is not conclusive and more studies are required to establish a connection. This vitamin can be found in foods such as beans, cereals, meat, fish, poultry, vegetables and fruit. The recommended dietary allowance for vitamin B6 is 1.3 mg for most adults through age 50. Older adults and women who are pregnant or breast-feeding need more -- up to 2.0 mg per day.
Folate
Folate, also known as folic acid or vitamin B9, may boost your heart health. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some research suggests that a sufficient intake of folic acid in your diet can decrease your risk for heart disease, but more studies are required. Folic acid helps maintain normal levels of homocysteine in your blood; therefore, consuming sufficient amounts of folic acid may lower your risk for this heart condition. If you have a family or personal history of heart disease or high homocysteine, you may need to talk to your doctor about supplementing your diet. The recommended dietary allowance for folate is 400 mcg for most adults. The RDI for pregnant women is 600 mcg, and it's 500 mcg for women who are breast-feeding.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, along with folate and vitamin B6, can also help reduce your homocysteine levels. This may make you less susceptible to heart attack or heart disease. You can obtain this vitamin in animal foods, including poultry, meat, turkey, eggs and dairy. If you do not consume animal products, you may be at risk for a vitamin B12 deficiency. The recommended dietary allowance for this vitamin is 2.4 mcg for most adults.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another essential nutrient that can be important for a healthy heart. According to the Mayo Clinic, this vitamin may stop from plaque from forming in and blocking your arteries, the vessels that carry blood and nutrients through your body. Plaque in your arteries can contribute to many heart problems, such as chest pain, heart attack and coronary artery disease. Good foods to consume include nuts, nut butters, spinach, avocado and olive oil. The recommended dietary allowance for vitamin E is 15 mg for most adults.
