Contents

[hide]

[show]

The 9 Best Supplements for Heart Health, According to a Dietitian

Swanson Odor-Controlled Garlic is a garlic supplement in capsule form. It contains 500 milligrams of allicin per serving which is one of the active compounds in garlic, along with high amounts of S-allyl cysteine (SAC), an antioxidant found in garlic. The recommended dose is one capsule three times per day. Keep in mind that some people experience stomach upset or garlicky breath when using garlic supplements.

Vitamins and your heart

Do vitamin and mineral supplements really promote heart health? Some older studies suggested that calcium supplements have heart health benefits. Studies on fish oil showed it was is good for your heart, too. But calcium supplements have come under scrutiny following a report that men who took more than 1,000 milligrams of supplemental calcium daily over a 12-year period were 20% more likely to succumb to heart disease than those who didn’t take the pills. And while some studies have found that popping fish oil capsules lowers the chance of having a heart attack or other related problem, others have failed to find such benefits.

Some observational studies have also shown links between heart health and higher intakes of certain vitamins — specifically, vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and three B vitamins (folic acid, B6, and B12). But more rigorous studies that compared people who took specific vitamins with those who took placebos have come up short. In fact, guidelines from the American Heart Association state that supplements of the vitamins listed above should not be taken to prevent heart disease. Not only do they not help, there’s even some suggestion that taking vitamin E supplements may slightly raise the risk of heart failure and hemorrhagic (bleeding) strokes.

The bottom line? It’s better to get your nutrients from foods, not pills. When you eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains, you don’t get individual nutrients in isolation — you get a blend of vitamins, carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fat, all of which have been proven to be beneficial for heart health.

Share This Page Share this page to Facebook
Print This Page Click to Print

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

Preventable medical errors kill about 22,000 patients a year, according to research from the Yale School of Medicine. That’s much less than a previously reported number of 250,000 deaths a year where medical error is to blame.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

The 9 Best Supplements for Heart Health, According to a Dietitian

Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more.

Melissa Rifkin is a Connecticut-based registered dietitian with over 15 years of experience working in the clinical setting.

Fact checked

Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more.

Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle.

Verywell Fit / David Hattan

When it comes to heart health, it is important, first and foremost, to focus on lifestyle habits like getting enough physical activity, managing stress, getting enough sleep, avoiding smoking, and eating a balanced diet. “Many supplements are advertised as heart healthy, but the research does not support supplements to override your nutrition, lifestyle, and medication to optimize your heart health,” says cardiology dietitian Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDE, CDN.

If you do not consume fish (a potent source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids), you have food intolerances or allergies to heart-healthy foods, or if you have known vitamin or mineral deficiencies, then heart health supplements may especially be beneficial for you.

When selecting a supplement for heart health, you should consider your reasoning for using it. Some supplements support blood pressure, while others support a healthy weight or cholesterol levels. We also recommend opting for supplements that are third-party tested. If you have a heart condition, we recommend speaking with a healthcare provider first to determine if supplements are appropriate for you.

Some heart health supplements may interfere with medications. Always speak with a healthcare professional before adding a supplement to your routine to ensure that the supplement is appropriate for your individual needs and which dosage to take.

Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Best Vegan Omega-3:
Best Coenzyme Q10:
Best Fiber Supplement:
Best Garlic Supplement:
Best Vitamin D Supplement:
Best Magnesium Supplement:
Best Folate Supplement:
Best Berine:
In This Article

Best Overall

Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega-3

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Herbspro.com

Third-party tested
Small serving size

Dose may not be appropriate for all

Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Liquid is a fish oil supplement with a high dose of omega-3 fats. Unsaturated omega-3 fats, including ALA, EPA, and DHA, are beneficial for heart health as they may help lower triglycerides, improve blood pressure, and reduce inflammation. ALA can be found in soybean, canola, walnut, and flaxseed oils, while EPA and DHA are found in fish like tuna, salmon, herring, trout, and algae. Getting these fats through food or in supplement form like Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Liquid may reduce the risk of heart disease and help lower blood pressure.

This fish oil supplement comes in liquid form, so it is easy to take. You can add one teaspoon to a liquid of choice to get 1,460 milligrams of EPA and 1,010 milligrams of DHA. Keep in mind that this dose may not be suitable for all, so we recommend consulting with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate dose for your individual needs. It is important to note that the US Food and Drug Administration recommends no more than 5 grams of EPA and DHA combined from supplements daily unless a healthcare provider indicates otherwise.

This fish oil supplement is lemon flavored, so you won’t experience any fishy aftertaste, and it is free from artificial fillers or additives. Nordic Naturals also provides a Certificate of Analysis for each product to verify that it has been third-party tested.

Price at time of publication: $36 ($1.50 per serving)

Form: Liquid | Dose: 1 teaspoon | Third-Party Tested: Yes | Servings Per Container: 24

Best Vegan Omega-3

DEVA Vegan Omega-3 DHA-EPA

View On Amazon View On IHerb

ConsumerLab.com tested and approved
Suitable for vegans or for those who don’t eat fish

Large pill

If you are a vegan, vegetarian, have a fish allergy, or simply do not enjoy fish, then you might consider turning to a vegan omega-3 supplement like DEVA to get a dose of these heart-healthy fats.

While walnuts, flaxseed, and chia seeds contain the omega-3 fat ALA, they do not contain EPA or DHA—the fats that are beneficial for heart health. The ALA must be converted to EPA and DHA in the body, and this process is not very efficient. Therefore, taking a vegan omega-3 supplement in EPA and DHA form may be beneficial.

DEVA Vegan Omega 3 DHA-EPA contains 300-420 milligrams of DHA per serving, along with 150-210 milligrams of EPA. These supplements are in softgel form, with orange oil and rosemary extract for flavor. This supplement has been tested for purity and potency through ConsumerLab.com’s voluntary certification program, and it was included as a top pick in ConsumerLab.com’s 2022 Fish Oil Supplements Review.

Price at time of publication: $32 ($0.53 per serving)

Form: Softgel | Dose: 1 softgel | Third-Party Tested: Yes | Servings Per Container: 60

Best Coenzyme Q10

GNC CoQ-10, 100 mg

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Gnc.com

ConsumerLab.com tested and approved
Softgel form

Recommended dose is 1 to 4 softgels

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a nutrient our bodies produce that helps convert food into energy and acts like an antioxidant. It can help protect blood vessels and heart tissue from damage that is commonly associated with heart disease, and many people with heart disease have low levels of CoQ10. CoQ10 has also been shown to be helpful in treating congestive heart failure and high blood pressure.

Some studies show CoQ10 supplementation among people with heart failure may improve symptoms and decrease the risk of dying from heart issues. However, few studies have looked at the impact of CoQ10 on the prevention of heart disease, and the results are mixed. You can get small amounts of CoQ10 in some foods, such as fatty fish, organ meats, and vegetables, or in supplement form.

If a CoQ10 supplement has been recommended for you, we like GNC CoQ-10 because it comes in softgel form with 100 milligrams per softgel. The recommended dose is one to four softgels taken with food. CoQ10 is typically best absorbed when taken with foods that have fat, so taking it with a meal can help ensure you’re getting the best absorption. GNC CoQ-10 was tested in ConsumerLab.com’s voluntary Quality Certification Program and was a top pick in ConsumerLab.com’s 2022 CoQ10 Supplements Review.

Price at time of publication: $40 ($0.33 per pill serving)

Form: Softgel capsule | Dose: 100 mg | Recommended use: 1 to 4 softgels daily | Third-Party Tested: Yes | Servings Per Container: 120

Best Fiber Supplement

Yerba Prima Psyllium Husks Powder

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On IHerb

Single ingredient
Budget friendly
May help improve blood sugar management and bowel regularity
Most researched-backed fiber supplement for heart health

Thickens quickly in liquids

Dietary fiber, the non-digestible parts of plants, provides many health benefits, including lowering heart disease risk. Fiber supplements are not meant to replace the fiber you get from foods, but they can help you reach the recommended daily fiber intake and provide added health benefits. For example, soluble, non-fermentable, gel-forming fiber supplements like psyllium husk can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and heart disease risk.

We like Yerba Prima Psyllium Husk Powder for a fiber supplement because it only contains ground psyllium husk. While this specific product is not third-party tested, their whole husk product is, and it passed for purity, potency, and potential contaminants like heavy metals. We chose the powdered form because it is a more concentrated fiber supplement and dissolves more easily in water compared to whole husks.

In addition to the cholesterol-lowering benefits, psyllium husk may also help alleviate digestive issues such as diarrhea and constipation, help with bowel regularity, help regulate blood sugar, and help regulate appetite.

To take this supplement, simply mix one teaspoon of powder into at least eight ounces of water. It is recommended to drink it immediately because psyllium husk thickens quickly in liquid. In general, it is important to hydrate adequately when supplementing with fiber to avoid gastrointestinal issues such as constipation and bloating.

You should also be aware that fiber supplements can reduce absorption of certain medications. If you are taking any medication, have difficulty swallowing, or have any active gastrointestinal inflammation or disease, you should consult a healthcare provider before taking a fiber supplement.

Price at time of publication: $26 ($0.19 per serving)

Form: Powder | Dose: 5 grams (1 teaspoon) | Third-Party Tested: No | Servings Per Container: 136

Best Garlic Supplement

Swanson Odor-Controlled Garlic

View On Amazon View On Walmart

Budget friendly
High amounts of allicin and SAC
Third-party tested

May cause stomach discomfort for some

While research is mixed, some studies suggest that if you have high levels of total and LDL cholesterol, then taking a garlic supplement may be helpful. The beneficial effect of garlic is relatively small, and it may take over eight weeks to notice any changes. Limited research also suggests that garlic supplements may also be helpful for lowering high blood pressure.

Swanson Odor-Controlled Garlic is a garlic supplement in capsule form. It contains 500 milligrams of allicin per serving which is one of the active compounds in garlic, along with high amounts of S-allyl cysteine (SAC), an antioxidant found in garlic. The recommended dose is one capsule three times per day. Keep in mind that some people experience stomach upset or garlicky breath when using garlic supplements.

Price at time of publication: $22 ($0.11 per capsule)

Form: Capsule | Dose: 1 capsule 3 times per day | Third-Party Tested: Yes | Servings Per Container: 200

Best Vitamin D Supplement

Thorne Vitamin D + K2

View On Amazon View On IHerb

Liquid form for individual dosing
Free from artificial colors or flavors

Not suitable for vegans

Vitamin D is a nutrient involved in many bodily processes and plays a role in heart health and regulating blood pressure. If you are deficient in vitamin D or have been recommended to take a vitamin D supplement by a healthcare professional, we recommend Thorne Vitamin D + K2.

Two drops of Thorne Vitamin D + K2 contain 1000 IU of vitamin D—125% Daily Value. However, since this supplement comes in liquid form with a metered dispenser, you can change the dose as needed. You can add these flavorless drops to food or liquid, making it simple to take. In addition to vitamin D, these drops also contain 200 micrograms of vitamin K2, which can also play a positive role in heart health.

While vitamin D is important for overall heart health, studies show that supplementation alone does not reduce risk of developing heart disease. You should also be aware that vitamin K can interact with blood thinning medication.

While this product is not third-party tested, Thorne does several rounds of internal testing for identity, purity, and potency to make sure their products are free of any contaminants. Thorne is a trusted brand with research-backed products.

Price at time of publication: $28 ($0.50 per serving)

Form: Liquid | Dose: 2 drops one to three times daily | Third-Party Tested: No | Servings Per Container: 600

Best Magnesium Supplement

Pure Encapsulations Magnesium (Glycinate)

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Nhc.com

Form is well tolerated
Free from major allergens
Third-party tested

May require up to 4 capsules daily

Magnesium is an electrolyte involved in blood pressure regulation, so getting enough magnesium can be important for heart health. You can get magnesium from green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains, but many people do not eat enough of these foods. If you are deficient in magnesium or do not regularly eat foods high in magnesium, a healthcare provider may recommend a magnesium supplement.

If you’re looking for a magnesium supplement, Pure Encapsulations Magnesium is a good option. This supplement contains magnesium glycinate, which is typically a well-tolerated form of magnesium. Pure Encapsulations products are third-party tested, and this product is also free from major allergens such as wheat, soy, dairy, eggs, nuts, and tree nuts.

You should be aware that very high intakes of magnesium can lead to irregular heartbeat and cardiac arrest. Therefore, it is best to discuss what dose is appropriate for you with a healthcare provider.

Price at time of publication: $24 ($0.26 per capsule)

Form: Capsule | Dose: 1 to 4 capsules daily | Third-Party Tested: Yes | Servings Per Container: 90

Best Folate Supplement

Doctor’s Best Fully Active Folate

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Drbvitamins.com

Vegetarian and vegan friendly
Budget friendly
Third-party tested

Large capsule

Folate, otherwise known as vitamin B9, can help break down the amino acid homocysteine. High levels of homocysteine in the blood are linked to a higher risk of heart disease. Some individuals with a mutation in a gene known as MTHFR cannot fully convert folate into its active form, which can increase the risk of developing heart disease. If you have this genetic variant, we recommend speaking with a healthcare professional to determine the best supplement for you.

Folate can be found in many foods, such as green leafy vegetables, beans, and citrus fruits. Plus, folic acid, the synthetic form of folate, is added to many grain products. Folic acid is typically better absorbed than naturally occurring folate. However, if you are not getting enough folate in your diet, a supplement may be recommended.

We like Doctor’s Best Fully Active Folate because it has folate as methylfolate, which is a well-absorbed form. It’s also budget-friendly, third-party tested, and suitable for vegans. The recommended dose is one capsule per day, which provides 100% Daily Value of folate.

Price at time of publication: $14 ($0.16 per serving)

Form: Capsule | Dose: 1 capsule daily | Third-Party Tested: Yes | Servings Per Container: 90

Best Berine

Thorne Berberine 1000 mg

View On Amazon View On IHerb

No artificial flavors
Free of major food allergens

Research not as strong
Not third-party tested

Best Foods for Heart Health

Besides taking a supplement for heart health, there are many foods you can eat to give you heart health benefits. Foods that are high in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can all benefit your health. Here are some specific examples of foods that can benefit heart health:

Blackberries. These dark, sweet berries are a good source of the antioxidant anthocyanin, vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. In addition, a 1-cup serving provides eight grams of fiber.
Garlic. Garlic is a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and can be a flavorful addition to many dishes. As noted above, a garlic supplement may have heart health benefits, but so does eating real garlic. Adding more garlic can also help limit your use of adding salt when cooking which could be helpful for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Chia Seeds. These tiny seeds pack a powerful punch: they are a good source of many minerals, fiber, and omega-3s. They can be used in many ways, including adding to oatmeal, smoothies, dressings, salads, and yogurt.
Leafy greens. Leafy greens are a known nutrition powerhouse, as they are a good source of many antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and are high in fiber.
Yogurt. Low-fat dairy products like yogurt can be a great way to get many heart-healthy nutrients like potassium, calcium, B vitamins, and a bonus source of gut-healthy probiotics.
Avocados. Avocados are a rare fruit that is high in heart-healthy fats. It is also a good source of fiber, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins C and E. You can use avocados in many ways (besides the popular avocado toast), including pasta sauces, dressings, puddings, and smoothies.

Are Heart Health Supplements Beneficial?

According to The American Heart Association, there are many lifestyle modifications that can support heart health. These include regularly engaging in physical activity, consuming a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing stress. If you do these modifications, you are setting yourself up for success and may not need supplements for heart health.

There are, however, certain situations in which heart health supplements may be beneficial:

Those with high blood pressure: High blood pressure can damage your arteries and decrease blood flow to your heart and brain, which can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Research shows some supplements may help lower blood pressure, including omega-3s, CoQ10, vitamin D, magnesium, and berberine. However, these should not replace any medication you take, and we recommend first speaking with a healthcare provider before starting a supplement.
Those with high cholesterol: Increased levels of LDL cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol, can build up on the walls of your blood vessels. This can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. If you have high levels of LDL cholesterol, you might consider an EPA supplement (a type of omega-3 fat). Plus, Routhenstein suggests eating foods high in soluble fiber—like lentils, barley, and chia seeds—to help lower LDL cholesterol naturally. Fiber supplements, such as psyllium husk, have also been shown to improve cholesterol levels.
Those with elevated triglycerides (fat in the blood): High blood levels of triglycerides can contribute to thickening of the artery walls, which can increase risk of heart attack or stroke. If you have high levels of triglycerides (over 150 mg/dl), fish oil can help lower your levels. Consuming 2-4 grams of omega-3 fats EPA+DHA or EPA per day has been shown to improve triglyceride levels. “However, it is important to note that a meta-analysis of randomized control trials showed that above one gram of fish oil per day in supplemental form can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation, so supplement use and dosage [for omega 3’s] should always be discussed with healthcare professionals including a registered dietitian,” says Routhenstein.
Those with known vitamin or mineral deficiencies: If a healthcare provider determined you have a vitamin or mineral deficiency that could impact your heart, then taking a supplement for that specific nutrient may be beneficial. This includes vitamins A, B6, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins D, C, and E.
Those with allergies or intolerances: If you have an allergy to foods like fish, you might consider an omega-3 supplement to ensure you get enough of these healthy fats.

Who May Not Benefit From Heart Health Supplements

Supplements for heart health are not always necessary. There are certain groups who may not benefit from heart health supplements. This includes:

Those without heart conditions: If you are healthy and are not at increased risk of heart disease, then supplements may not be necessary. We recommend focusing on lifestyle behaviors that support overall heart health.
Those eating a balanced diet: If you eat a balanced diet and are not deficient in any vitamins or minerals that are related to heart health, such as calcium, magnesium, omega-3 fats, or vitamin D, then taking a vitamin or mineral supplement may not be needed.
Those taking certain medications: If you are taking any medications, you should consult with a healthcare provider before using supplements. Routhenstein says, “Certain supplements [should not be taken] with certain medications, which is why it is so important to consult with your health care team first, including your registered dietitian. For instance, fish oil or turmeric supplements may sound heart healthy, but if you are on a blood clotting/thinning medication, your risk of bleeding excessively increases.”

How We Select Supplements

Our team works hard to be transparent about why we recommend certain supplements; you can read more about our dietary supplement methodology here.

We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. We value certain product attributes that we find to be associated with the highest quality products. We prioritize products that are third-party tested and certified by one of three independent third-party certifiers: USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com.

It’s important to note that the FDA does not review dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they go to market. Our team of experts has created a detailed, science-backed methodology to choose the supplements we recommend. Additionally, we interviewed Michelle Routhenstein, MS RD CDE CDN, a Registered Dietitian specializing in heart health who works with patients to help manage and prevent heart disease and heart attacks.

What to Look For in Heart Health Supplements

Third-Party Testing

Supplements that are third-party tested are sent to a lab where they are tested to ensure they contain what they say they contain and are not contaminated with specific high-risk, common contaminants. However, it’s important to note:

Third-party testing does not test to see if a product is effective or safe for everyone, and it does not ensure the supplement will not interact with other supplements or medications.
Not all third-party testing is created equal. It is not uncommon for supplement companies to pay labs for certificates after conducting minimal to no testing.
The third-party certifications we can trust are ConsumerLab.com, NSF, and USP. However, these certifications are difficult to obtain and/or expensive for manufacturers, so many companies choose not to get their products tested by one of these three organizations.
Sometimes products tested by these three companies are more expensive to try to offset the cost they pay for certification.
Just because a supplement is not tested by one of these three companies, it does not mean it’s a bad product. We recommend doing some research on the reputability of the manufacturer and calling up the manufacturer and their testing lab to determine their protocols and decide if you feel comfortable consuming the supplement.

There is always the risk of contamination with supplements, so it is important to choose those that have been third-party tested. Contamination with heavy metals can be possible in certain fiber supplements, and fish oil supplements can go rancid, which means their beneficial effects go down. This can result in an unpleasant taste and can reduce safety and efficacy. In addition to opting for a supplement that has been third-party tested, always follow the manufacturer’s tips for storage and expiration date.

Form

Supplements for heart health come in many forms, including pills, capsules, softgels, and liquids. Certain supplements may contain added ingredients such as B vitamins, vitamin C, or stabilizers. It is best to check labels to be certain that you know what a supplement contains.

Ingredients & Potential Interactions

It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of a supplement to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included, relative to the recommended daily value of that ingredient. Please bring the supplement label to a healthcare provider to review the different ingredients contained in the supplement and any potential interactions between these ingredients and other supplements and medications you are taking.

Be sure to check supplement labels to see what ingredients may be present.

Medication Interactions: Certain supplements should be avoided or taken with caution if you are using particular medications. If you take blood thinning medication or medication that lowers blood pressure, please discuss fish oil supplementation with a healthcare provider.

Fiber supplements may interact with diabetes medications and may interfere with your body’s ability to absorb certain medications such as tricyclic antidepressants, carbamazepine, digoxin, lithium, or diabetes medications.

Vitamin D, folate, and magnesium can also interact with certain medications. If you are taking medications, consult with a healthcare provider before using supplements for heart health.

Added Ingredients: Supplements may contain added ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, caffeine, or herbs. When possible, it’s best to choose supplements without these added ingredients, especially if you have any medical conditions or take other medications.

Dosage

The dosage will vary based on your supplement of choice. Routhenstein says, “It is important to assess the dosages of all supplements; many people think that more is better, and that simply is not true. Having mega-doses of certain nutrients in supplemental form can lead to toxicity, cardiac arrhythmias, GI distress, and kidney and liver damage.” You should always review dosing with a healthcare provider.

How Much is Too Much?

Taking high doses of certain nutrients can lead to toxicity or cause other issues. Taking high doses of folate can mask a vitamin B12 deficiency while taking high doses of magnesium can lead to GI upset, nausea, irregular heartbeat, and cardiac arrest. Taking too much vitamin D can cause high calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood, and too much fiber can lead to gas and bloating. It is important to avoid exceeding nutrient upper limits established by the National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What vitamins strengthen your heart?

Many vitamins are involved in ensuring your heart works properly. This includes vitamins A, B6, folic acid, and vitamins D, E, K, and C. Certain minerals are important for heart health as well, such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Routhenstein says, “Ensuring adequate calcium intake through food helps with heartbeat regularity, blood pressure control, and prevention of osteoporosis (a risk factor for heart disease).” Keep in mind, though, that if you do not have a diagnosed deficiency in a particular vitamin or mineral (especially if you already take a multivitamin), then supplementing could result in taking too much, which could be potentially harmful.

What supplements should a heart patient take?

If you have heart disease or have had a cardiac event like a heart attack, we recommend speaking with a healthcare professional to determine whether certain supplements are appropriate for you. Whether or not a heart patient should take supplements should be determined on an individual basis.

What supplement removes plaque from arteries?

High levels of cholesterol in the blood, high blood pressure, and inflammation can result in plaque buildup in the arteries. While no one supplement can remove plaque from arteries, by focusing on lifestyle changes that promote healthy cholesterol levels, you can support healthy arteries and reduce the risk of plaque build-up. This includes consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, and engaging in physical activity. In addition, a fiber supplement, like our recommended Yerba Prima Psyllium Husk Powder, may also help pull out excess cholesterol levels in the blood.

Which is better for your heart, COQ10 or fish oil?

CoQ10 and fish oil can benefit your heart health in different ways. Studies show CoQ10 supplementation among people with heart failure may decrease the risk of dying from heart issues. It may also be effective in treating high blood pressure and act as an antioxidant to protect blood vessels from damage. Few studies have looked at the impact of CoQ10 on the prevention of heart disease, however. Fish oil, which contains omega-3 fats, can be beneficial for heart health as it may help lower triglycerides, blood pressure, and reduce inflammation.

What happens if you take COQ10 every day?

Doses for CoQ10 supplements range from 30 to 200 milligrams daily. CoQ10 is typically well tolerated, although some may experience diarrhea, headaches, or nausea. Splitting up doses throughout the day can minimize potential gastrointestinal side effects. CoQ10 can also interfere with sleep for some people if taken before bed and can interact with certain medications.

23 Sources

Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Chaddha A, Eagle KA. Omega-3 fatty acids and heart health. Circulation. 2015;132(22). doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.114.015176
Borghi C, Cicero AFG. Nutraceuticals with a clinically detectable blood pressure-lowering effect: a review of available randomized clinical trials and their meta-analyses: Antihypertensive nutraceuticals. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2017;83(1):163-171. doi:10.1111/bcp.12902
Fotino AD, Thompson-Paul AM, Bazzano LA. Effect of coenzyme Q₁₀ supplementation on heart failure: a meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr. 2013;97(2):268-275. doi:10.3945/ajcn.112.040741
The effect of coenzyme q10 on morbidity and mortality in chronic heart failure: results from q-symbio: a randomized double-blind trial. JACC: Heart Failure. 2014;2(6):641-649. doi:10.1016/j.jchf.2014.06.008
Coenzyme q10. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
Lambeau KV, McRorie JW. Fiber supplements and clinically proven health benefits: How to recognize and recommend an effective fiber therapy. J Am Assoc Nurse Pract. 2017;29(4):216-223. doi:10.1002/2327-6924.12447
Jovanovski E, Yashpal S, Komishon A, et al. Effect of psyllium (Plantago ovata) fiber on LDL cholesterol and alternative lipid targets, non-HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr. 2018;108(5):922-932. doi:10.1093/ajcn/nqy115
Reinhart KM, Talati R, White CM, Coleman CI. The impact of garlic on lipid parameters: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Res Rev. 2009;22(1):39-48. doi:10.1017/S0954422409350003
Garlic. National Center for Complementary Integrative Health.
Ried K, Travica N, Sali A. The effect of kyolic aged garlic extract on gut microbiota, inflammation, and cardiovascular markers in hypertensives: the gargic trial. Front Nutr. 2018;5:122. doi:10.3389/fnut.2018.00122
Vitamin D. National Institutes of Health.
Schwalfenberg GK. Vitamins k1 and k2: the emerging group of vitamins required for human health. J Nutr Metab. 2017;2017:6254836. doi:10.1155/2017/6254836
Hariri E, Kassis N, Iskandar JP, et al. Vitamin K2-a neglected player in cardiovascular health: a narrative review. Open Heart. 2021;8(2):e001715. doi:10.1136/openhrt-2021-001715
Magnesium. National Institute of Health.
Folate. National Institutes of Health
Meta-analysis of the effect and safety of berberine in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipemia and hypertension. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2015;161:69-81. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2014.09.049
How to help prevent heart disease at any age. American Heart Association.
Ldl and hdl cholesterol and triglycerides. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Skulas-Ray AC, Wilson PWF, Harris WS, et al. Omega-3 fatty acids for the management of hypertriglyceridemia: a science advisory from the american heart association. Circulation. 2019;140(12). doi:10.1161/CIR.0000000000000709
Shah AK, Dhalla NS. Effectiveness of some vitamins in the prevention of cardiovascular disease: a narrative review. Front Physiol. 2021;12. doi:10.3389/fphys.2021.729255
DiNicolantonio JJ, Liu J, O’Keefe JH. Magnesium for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Open Heart. 2018;5(2):e000775. doi:10.1136/openhrt-2018-000775
Judd SE, Tangpricha V. Vitamin d deficiency and risk for cardiovascular disease. Am J Med Sci. 2009;338(1):40-44. doi:10.1097/MAJ.0b013e3181aaee91
Fiber. Mount Sinai Health System.

The 9 Best Supplements for Heart Health, According to a Dietitian

Vitamins and your heart

Disclaimer:

The 9 Best Supplements for Heart Health, According to a Dietitian