Heart failure affects more than 64 million people around the world. It’s therefore not surprising that people are always looking for effective ways of supporting their hearts and managing heart failure. Patients are typically given a whole range of different medications to deal with their condition and symptoms. However, these medications are often accompanied by a number of unpleasant side effects, such as digestive issues, changes in kidney function, and even depression. Therefore, people often turn to natural alternatives in order to manage their condition without any of these unwanted effects. Which natural ways are worth trying, considering that there are so many products that offer false claims in their advertising?
Consuming Vitamin and Magnesium Supplements
Magnesium deficiency has been linked to a worsening of various heart failure symptoms, including fluid retention, muscle weakness, and arrhythmias. Supplements may help treat irregular heartbeats and also support normal electrical signaling in the heart itself. Vitamins C and E may also be beneficial as Vitamin C reduces oxidative stress and Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant. Vitamin B supplements are also worth considering as they are regarded as essential for maintaining good heart health. Since the heart relies on adenosine triphosphate for energy, creatine may also help improve energy metabolism. Fish oil helps reduce inflammation and may also reduce arrhythmias. Potassium supplementation could also help, as low potassium levels have been linked to arrhythmias.
Making Lifestyle Changes
Taking care of your heart typically requires making certain lifestyle changes. For one, you need to maintain a weight that does not put extra strain on your heart. You also need to limit your salt intake and avoid overindulging in alcohol. Regularly exercising is also important, and the three exercise types to focus on for improved heart health are aerobic, strength, and flexibility exercises. Flexibility exercise includes yoga and tai chi, whereas aerobic exercise can be anything from walking to riding a bicycle. Strength training typically includes lifting weights or using resistance bands. Don’t overexert yourself in the beginning. Start slowly, and increase the amount of exercise you do over time gradually.
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Changes in Diet
There are several dietary changes you can implement that can significantly improve your heart health. You should aim to increase your consumption of monounsaturated oils, such as extra virgin olive oil. These beneficial fats are known to help reduce inflammation. You should also aim to eat more vegetables and fruits, such as garlic, onions, and celery. Celery contains phthalides, which help relax the walls of blood vessels by reducing blood pressure. You should also limit your sodium intake to 2,000 mg, as this will help reduce fluid retention, which causes the heart to work harder. You can replace salt with herbs and spices such as cumin, paprika, and sage to add more flavor without increasing sodium.
Taking Hawthorn
This herb has a history of traditional use, earning it the nickname, “the heart herb”. Some studies have suggested that this herb may improve mild to moderate symptoms of heart failure, such as improving left ventricular function and acting as a natural ACE inhibitor. It was also found to enhance oxygen utilization and increase the contraction force of heart muscles. It has even been approved for treating mild CHF in Germany. However, it is important to note that taking hawthorn should be supplementary. In other words, you should take it in addition to your usual medication, not instead of it. However, there is the potential for interactions with other heart medications, so it’s always best to check with your doctor first!
Taking Coenzyme Q10
This compound is naturally produced in the body and is present in every cell, particularly in the liver, kidneys, and heart. Studies have shown that heart failure patients have lower levels of Coenzyme Q10, therefore supplementation may benefit some patients. A study from 2014 revealed that heart failure patients who were taking 300mg of the supplement daily experienced fewer hospitalizations and higher survival rates. While not a cure of any sort, taking this supplement can help support better heart function alongside other medications. However, it can interact with certain medications, such as warfarin (a blood-thinning medication).
The Bottom Line
We are always looking for new ways to improve our heart health, especially after suffering from heart failure. While many medications are indeed helpful, taking too many can often lead to unwanted side effects. If there are any medications that can be substituted for more natural alternatives, then all the better! As our list has shown, there are several ways that you can naturally improve your heart health and maintain your body after heart failure. However, it’s always best to discuss any changes in medication and supplementation with your doctor to rule out any potential interactions!
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
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