Coronary artery disease or CAD, also referred to as arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease, occurs when plaque forms and causes narrowing or clotting of the arteries, which are the small blood vessels supplying oxygen and blood to the heart. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath and weakness. Conditions associated with CAD include elevated cholesterol and triglycerides, high blood pressure, diabetes and increased levels of the amino acid homocysteine. Treatment options include diet, exercise, medication and dietary supplements.
Fish Oil
Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and is derived from fatty fish such as salmon and tuna. In September 2009, the "American Journal of Therapeutics" published a study confirming the role of omega-3 fatty acids in treating and preventing coronary heart disease. It found that omega-3s reduced coronary mortality from cardiac disease because it reduces triglyceride levels, blood pressure, arrhythmia and atherosclerosis. Recommendations call for people to eat at least two 3-oz. fatty fish servings per week, which is the equivalent of about 1 g omega-3 fats. For supplements containing over 1 g omega-3 fatty acids, seek medical supervision.
Folic Acid and B12
Folic acid and vitamin B12 belong to the B vitamin family. Folic acid is required for red blood cell formation. B12 has many functions including red blood cell formation and homocysteine conversion to methionine for DNA synthesis. According to a study published in "Coronary Artery Disease" in March 2011, long-term supplementation of folic acid and B12 together improved cardiac function in patients with stable CAD. Supplemental dosage related to the study was 0.8 mg folic acid and 0.4 mg B12. These vitamins are found in B-complex supplements and multivitamins or can be purchased separately.
Niacin
Niacin is a B vitamin that helps turn carbohydrates into energy. It is often found in multivitamin or B-complex supplements or can be purchased separately. In December 2004, the Department of Medicine, University of California, published a review of studies examining the effects of niacin on cardiovascular disease. It concluded that niacin can protect against atherosclerosis. According to a study published in the March 2011 "Journal of Clinical Investigations," niacin inhibits the progression of atherosclerosis in mice without actually affecting lipid levels. This indicates that niacin offers antiinflamatory effects that can be useful in treating atherosclerosis.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a substance found in the cells of the body. It is involved in making ATP, which is the body's major source of energy and works as an antioxidant. According to the University of Maryland, CoQ10 supplementation improves energy production and inhibits clot formation. The Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Wyoming reviewed studies of CoQ10 and reported that it regulates membrane fluidity and protects membranes from oxidative damage. Recommendations for CoQ10 range from 30 to 200 mg per day. It is fat-soluble and should be taken with a meal. If you are currently taking medications, consult with your physician for possible interactions.
References
- "American Journal of Theapeutics"; The Utility of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Cardiovascular Disease; A. Saremi and R. Arora; September-October 2009
- "Coronary Artery Disease"; Coronary Blood Flow in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease Treated Long Term with Folic Acid and Vitamin B12; O. Bleie, et al.; March 2011
- "Current Opinion in Lipidology"; Niacin Therapy in Atherosclerosis; C. D. Meyers, et al.; December 2004
- "Journal of Clinical Investigations; Nicotinic Acid Inhibits Progression of Atherosclerosis in Mice through its Receptor GPR109A Expressed by Immune Cells; M. Lukasova, et al.; March 2011
- University of Maryland -- Complementary Medicine: Coenzyme Q10
- "Current Neurovascular Research"; The Emerging Role of Coenzyme Q-10 in Aging, Neurodegeneration, Cardiovascular Disease, Cancer and Diabetes Mellitus; M. Dhanase and J. Ren; December 2005
