Whether you’re looking ahead to support healthy aging or working to reduce your risk factors for heart disease right now, a supplement for heart health can help. Heart disease is the number one cause of death among all genders and ethnicities, so taking care to reduce the risks, no matter who you are, is a good idea at any age. (1) The best heart health supplements work in various ways to lower cholesterol, improve blood pressure, reduce inflammation in the body, and prevent calcification, or hardening, of the arteries.
Our team of health experts and registered dietitians reviewed the best vitamins and supplements to support a healthy heart. After evaluating safety, ingredients, effectiveness, value, and more, we found the six best supplements for heart health available on the market today.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Our picks for the best supplements for heart health
- Best K2: Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 + K2
- Best fiber: Onnit Total Gut Health
- Best magnesium: Legion Athletics Sucrosomial Magnesium
- Best potassium: Nutricost Potassium Chloride
- Best omega 3: Lifeforce Omega
- Best beet: Human Tonik Red Tonic
Compare supplements for heart health
Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 + K2 | Onnit Total Gut Health | Legion Athletics Sucrosomial Magnesium | Nutricost Potassium Chloride | Lifeforce Omega | Human Tonik Red Tonic | |
Rating | ||||||
Cost per serving | $0.50 | $2.53 | $0.25 | $0.02 | $2.50 | $2.23 |
Form | Softgel capsule | Capsules | Capsule | Powder | Softgel | Powder |
Active ingredients | Vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 | Digestive enzyme blend, fennel, ginger root, AstaZyme, saccharomyces boulardii, betaine HCL, Jerusalem artichoke, dandelion, L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium lactis | Sucrosomial magnesium | Potassium chloride | MaxSimil® fish oil, gamma linolenic acid, sesame seed, palmitoleic acid, stearidonic acid | Beetroot, cordyceps, cranberry, tart cherry, turmeric, pomegranate, goji, grape seed extract, resveratrol, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and ginger root extract |
Best K2 supplement for heart health: Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 + K2
Key product features
What you should know
With Transparent Labs D3 + K2, you get two nutrients that support a healthy vascular system and can be challenging to get enough of through food alone.
- The combination of vitamin D and vitamin K2 may help reduce hardening of the arteries. (2)
- The option for a subscription lowers the cost per serving and provides free shipping.
- If you’re at risk of heart disease or take a calcium supplement, a vitamin D and vitamin K combo may help reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. (3)
- It’s safe for vegans as the vitamin D and vitamin K2 are sourced from plants, not animals.
Why we like Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 + K2 as best K2
Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 + K2 includes two vital nutrients that work together as a synergistic blend, helping your body absorb calcium in the right places, like bones and teeth, and directing it away from arteries where it can lead to plaque build-up.
Research shows that 40.9% of the U.S. population has insufficient vitamin D levels, which may increase the risk of a heart attack. The 125 micrograms included in this supplement can help restore levels of this vital fat-soluble vitamin. (4) While vitamin D helps the body absorb more calcium, that calcium is not always directed to helpful places. When calcium is sent to soft tissues like arteries, it can cause calcification (or hardening) of the arteries, leading to coronary artery disease. (5)
The addition of 100 micrograms of vitamin K2 helps to activate the Matrix GLA protein (MGP), which binds to calcium, moving it out of the arteries and into the places it belongs, like bones and teeth. (2) Menaquinone-7, or MK-T, is the form of vitamin K2 found in Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 + K2 and also happens to be the most effective form of vitamin K2 for activating these proteins that decrease arterial stiffness. (2)
The body of evidence around Vitamin K2’s myriad benefits continues to grow,” adds Chris Mohr, PhD, RD. “Originally, the Rotterdam study found a correlation between K2 and various health outcomes in over 15,000 subjects ranging from 55-106 years old, and research has continued to support it since then.”
Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 + K2 is gluten-free and vegan, sourcing its vitamin D3 from lichen and vitamin K2 from chickpeas. It’s also third-party tested, which brings peace of mind that you’re getting exactly what the bottle says and no unsafe contaminants or banned substances.
Each bottle has 60 servings. With the optional subscription, you can earn free shipping and save three dollars, bringing the cost down from $0.50 to $0.45 per serving and waiving the minimum $99 order for free shipping, which is helpful since this supplement is mainly available for order on the manufacturer’s website.
Specs
Form | Softgel capsule |
Daily dose | One per day |
Number of servings | 60 |
Third-party tested | Yes |
Key ingredients | Vitamin D3, vitamin K2 |
Price per serving | $0.50 |
Best fiber supplement for heart health: Onnit Total Gut Health
Key product features
What you should know
Each packet of Onnit Total Gut Health includes seven capsules of gut and digestion-supporting nutrients for an all-in-one way to support a healthy gut microbiome.
- Each serving is seven pills but includes digestive enzymes, prebiotics, probiotics, and betaine HCL to support digestion and a healthy gut microbiome, reducing the need for multiple supplements.
- If this supplement works for you, the subscription service can save you up to 35%.
- With the addition of digestive enzymes and betaine HCL, this top fiber supplement may offer the most benefits if you want to support heart health and also suffer from digestion problems including bloating and gas.
- Many of the probiotics included have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and support overall heart health.
- With no third-party testing and the presence of proprietary blends, it’s difficult to guarantee the purity and potency of this supplement.
Why we like Onnit Total Gut Health as best fiber
While Onnit Total Gut Health works as a good fiber supplement, that’s just part of the package that supports a healthy gut—and in turn, a healthy heart. Each packet has seven capsules, including probiotics, prebiotics, betaine HCL, saccharomyces boulardii (a beneficial yeast), and digestive enzymes to support proper digestion of the foods you eat and a healthy gut microbiome.
The prebiotic fibers included in Onnit’s system are Jerusalem artichoke and dandelion, ingredients that are high in inulin, a prebiotic fiber that may help lower LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, and body weight, three risk factors for heart disease. (5) Each serving has 1.5 grams of prebiotic fiber ingredients. Some suggest that 3 grams per day of prebiotics is the minimum to confer any benefit, yet other data suggests a minimum of 5 grams. (6) The amount contained in this product is additive to other nutritional sources.
While the main focus of this 5-in-1 digestive supplement is to support digestion and a healthy gut microbiome, its effects can be seen system-wide, as a healthy gut influences the health of your heart. As healthy gut bacteria break down the prebiotic fibers, short-chain fatty acids are released, which may protect the body from hypertension and cardiovascular disease. (7)
The five probiotic strains included may all work together to keep your heart healthy. L. rhamnosus may reduce cholesterol levels and help keep existing arterial plaques stable. (8) L. acidiphilus DDS-1 and L. plantarum reduce inflammation and may also help reduce dietary cholesterol levels. (9, 10) Bifidobacteria, which research suggests decreases in the gut microbiome in the presence of heart disease and increases with the resolution of heart disease markers, has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress on the body, reduce inflammation, and help regulate the immune system. (10)
At $2.53 per serving, this supplement is much more expensive than many other options. At this high price point, we would like to see third-party testing to ensure you’re getting what the label says and that the 15 billion CFUs are still alive and active. In addition, the proprietary blend of probiotics leaves us wondering how much of each we’re getting and if the doses are the recommended amounts.
Visit our full Onnit Total Gut Health review for more insights on this brand.
What customers are saying
On Amazon, Onnit Total Gut Health has 826 global ratings, most of which are positive. Customers feel that the supplement is effective at repopulating the gut with healthy bacteria and reducing bloating.
Most negative reviews are due to the number of pills required and the price, with review headlines such as “Works Great, Expensive” and “Works for me. But way too expensive.”
Joel D. gives a 4-star review, saying, “Onnit ‘Total Gut Health’ provides an ‘all-in-one’ product to supply your gut with the protection it needs. Taking 7 capsules at one time isn’t the most convenient, but again, it is complete. I’ve been taking this product for two years and believe it is the best available—all things considered.”
Specs
Form | Capsules |
Daily dose | 7 capsules |
Number of servings | 30 per order |
Third-party tested | No |
Key ingredients | Digestive enzyme blend, fennel, ginger root, AstaZyme, saccharomyces boulardii, betaine HCL, Jerusalem artichoke, dandelion, lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium lactis |
Price per serving | $2.53 |
Best magnesium supplement for heart health: Legion Athletics Sucrosomial Magnesium
Key product features
What you should know
Legion Athletics Sucrosomial Magnesium includes 150 milligrams of magnesium encased in a formulation of sucrose esters of fatty acids, which allows the body to absorb and utilize more magnesium than other forms like bis-glycinate, oxide, or citrate. (11)
- One serving provides 36% of the recommended daily value for magnesium in a highly absorbable form.
- At $0.25 per serving, this third-party tested magnesium supplement is a good value compared to many other products on the market.
- The lower dose of magnesium may be better tolerated by people who are susceptible to diarrhea from magnesium supplements.
Why we like Legion Athletics Sucrosomial Magnesium as best magnesium
Legion Athletics Sucrosomial Magnesium is our pick for the best magnesium supplement for heart health and includes 150 milligrams of a highly absorbable form of magnesium. By encasing magnesium in a coating of sucrose esters of fatty acids, this supplement resists interference of minerals, phytates, and other compounds that reduce absorption, making it more absorbable than other forms like magnesium citrate or standard magnesium oxide. (11)
Magnesium acts as a cofactor for more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body and plays an important role in the pathways that fight oxidative stress. (12) Research has found that depleted levels of magnesium increase the risk of heart disease and death from heart disease. This is most likely related to magnesium’s important role in blood pressure regulation, myocardial metabolism, heart contractions and excitability, and vascular tone. (13)
Since magnesium plays an important role in heart contractions, it’s no surprise that low levels of this mineral are associated with cardiac arrhythmias as well. People with low magnesium may have up to a 50% increased risk of atrial fibrillation, the most frequent arrhythmia in adults, compared to those who have appropriate serum magnesium levels. (14) Legion Athletics Sucrosomial Magnesium, when paired with a diet high in magnesium, can help you to maintain appropriate levels.
While each dose only has 36% of the recommended daily value for magnesium, this lower dose may help avoid gastric symptoms like diarrhea, commonly associated with magnesium supplements. (15) The lower dose allows you to meet the remaining 270 milligrams of magnesium with food. You can also choose to take multiple doses, which will increase the amount of magnesium and the cost per serving.
Most Americans aren’t getting enough magnesium in their diet,” says Mohr. “As a dietitian, I always encourage people to eat a wide variety of these foods to enhance nutrient intake, but for some, an additional magnesium supplement may be beneficial.”
While the supplement itself is free from artificial fillers, dyes, and preservatives, it may not be safe or appropriate for everyone. It’s processed in a facility that also processes common allergens like milk, eggs, soy, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, and wheat, so you may want to avoid it if you have severe food allergies, as cross-contamination is possible.
At $0.25 per serving, this highly absorbable, third-party-tested supplement is a good value. You can save even more by taking advantage of their subscription options and feel confident with their “No Return Necessary” money-back guarantee.
What customers are saying
Amazon customers are fans of Legion Athletics Sucrosomial Magnesium, giving it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars with 139 global ratings. Many love the value, quality, and effectiveness of this supplement. A common theme among the reviews is the trust and confidence in the Legion Athletic brand as they use third-party testing to verify purity and potency, and limit their claims to only those that clinical research has proven to be true.
Many customers also love the price and quantity of this product. Eric G says, “Definitely worth the money for 120 capsules! It has helped me better than the other forms I have used in the past.”
Specs
Form | Capsule |
Daily dose | 1 capsule |
Number of servings | 120 |
Third-party tested | Yes |
Key ingredients | Sucrosomial magnesium |
Price per serving | $0.25 |
Best potassium supplement for heart health: Nutricost Potassium Chloride
Key product features
What you should know
Nutricost Potassium Chloride is a powder that can easily be added to any liquid to increase your potassium intake by 365 milligrams, or 8% of the recommended daily value.
- To customize your potassium intake, each 1/8 teaspoon of Nutricost’s Potassium Chloride has 365 milligrams of potassium, or 8% of the daily value, the same amount found in a small banana. (16)
- Each container, priced at $29.95, contains 1,425 servings, which is only $0.02 for each 365 milligram serving.
- This is a great option for anyone who has difficulty swallowing pills, makes their own electrolyte mixes, or needs less potassium than what’s offered in traditional supplements.
Why we like Nutricost Potassium Chloride as best potassium
Potassium plays multiple roles in supporting a healthy heart, from regulating blood pressure to keeping your heart pumping correctly. The key is to get enough, but not too much. Nutricost Potassium Chloride offers an easy way to get as much potassium as you need in an easy-to-use powder.
Each 1/8 teaspoon serving has 365 milligrams of potassium, about as much as a small banana. Since the best way to get potassium is through your diet by eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, dairy, lentils, beans, and fish, we love that this supplement has a way for you to add just a little extra—8% of the daily value—if needed, or more if your doctor recommends it. Its only ingredient is potassium chloride, and it’s third-party tested, so you know you’re getting just that.
Potassium is an electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance and plays an important role in regulating blood pressure. Research has found that an intake of 3,510-4,692 milligrams of potassium a day (higher than the recommended daily value) could decrease systolic blood pressure by 7.2 mm Hg in adults with hypertension. (17) Potassium also helps to regulate your heart rhythm, so maintaining an adequate amount can help support a normal heart rhythm. (18)
If you’re trying to regulate and monitor your blood pressure, check out our recommendations for the best blood pressure monitors.
If you have kidney disease, diabetes, heart failure, or take any medications that may reduce your excretion of potassium, you’ll want to be careful with how much potassium you consume and speak with your doctor before adding any supplements, as too much potassium can build up in your body, leading to potentially fatal consequences. (19)
Mohr adds his perspective to this. “We know that sodium and potassium work together, almost like a seesaw that your body keeps in a close balance. The diet of most Americans, however, is significantly higher in sodium than in potassium. Adding more fruits and veggies would be the first step since these contain potassium, among other nutrients. Second, a supplement may support your needs after talking with your health care practitioner to assess your intake.”
What customers are saying
Customers on Amazon give Nutricost Potassium Chloride powder an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, noting its good value and effectiveness, but many are not fans of the taste.
Some have found that it works well for making their own hydration mixes, while others have noticed objective benefits.
While many people find this easier to take than other forms of potassium, the flavor of the powder is enough to turn some people off. Reviewer Pelicana says, “I hate the prescription potassium because they are huge and not easy to swallow. The liquid form is so nasty tasting. I have to take every day so this powder form is great for me. I can’t do the whole 1/8 teaspoon in my water because of the taste. I split the dose so I don’t taste it.”
Specs
Form | Powder |
Daily dose | ⅛ tsp |
Number of servings | 1,425 |
Third-party tested | Yes |
Key ingredients | Potassium chloride |
Price per serving | $0.02 |
Best omega-3 supplement for heart health: Lifeforce Omega
Key product features
What you should know
Lifeforce Omega delivers EPA and DHA in a highly absorbable form, along with smaller amounts of omega-6 and omega-7 fatty acids, to support lower cholesterol levels and a healthy cardiovascular system.
- Lifeforce Omega uses MaxSimil® to increase the absorption of EPA and DHA three to five times more than some other forms of omega-3 fatty acid supplements. (20)
- The price per serving is reduced from $2.50 to $1.83 with a monthly subscription.
- This may be a good option for someone who wants to take advantage of Lifeforce’s membership options, which include discounts on supplements, lab testing, clinical visits, and unlimited health coaching.
- Each Softgel includes 333 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids, with 1,000 milligrams in a suggested serving size of 3 softgels.
- In addition to EPA and DHA, you’ll also get smaller amounts of omega-6 fatty acids and omega-7 fatty acids.
Why we like Lifeforce Omega as best omega-3
Lifeforce Omega is an omega-3 fatty acid supplement that’s formulated for maximum absorption and utilization, so you can reap the most benefits from the 1,000 milligrams of EPA and DHA included in each three softgel serving.
The anti-inflammatory effects of EPA and DHA may help support cardiovascular health, as cardiovascular disease is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation of the body. These fatty acids may also reduce LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides, two risk factors for heart disease. (21) Research has found that supplementing the diet with EPA and DHA may reduce the risk of a fatal heart attack by up to 35%. (22)
However, the amount needed to see these effects remains unclear as studies have found various benefits from doses ranging from 200 milligrams per day to 4,000 milligrams per day of omega-3 fatty acids. (23) Lifeforce Omega falls near the middle of those amounts with 1,000 milligrams per serving, including 670 milligrams of EPA and 300 milligrams of DHA.
The delivery system of omega-3 fatty acids is really what makes Lifeforce Omega stand apart. MaxSimil® is a predigested form of omega-3 fatty acids that are esterified in monoacylglycerides. According to one research study, this form of omega-3 fatty acids has a three to five times higher absorption rate than fatty acids esterified in ethyl ester, a common form of omega-3 supplements. (20)
Each serving also provides 100 milligrams of omega-6 fatty acids and 100 milligrams of omega-7 fatty acids. Although they’re thought to reduce the risk of heart disease and inflammation in the body, recent research has found they may not be as beneficial as previously believed because, while essential, most overconsume omega-6 fats yet underconsume omega-3s. (24). Further, omega-7 fats are not essential, meaning the body produces them on its own. ( 25)
As a suggested serving of Lifeforce Omega costs $2.50, we’d like to see third-party testing to verify purity and potency. With a subscription, you can save $20 of the cost, bringing the price per serving down to $1.83—which is better, but still high for a supplement that only provides one nutrient.
Specs
Form | Softgel |
Daily dose | 3 softgels daily |
Number of servings | 30 |
Third-party tested | No |
Key ingredients | MaxSimil® fish oil,gamma linolenic acid, sesame seed, palmitoleic acid, stearidonic acid |
Price per serving | $2.50 |
Best beet supplement for heart health: Human Tonik Red Tonic
Key product features
What you should know
Human Tonik Red Tonik features beetroot and 12 other antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory plant compounds to support optimal circulation and overall wellness.
- As a daily supplement, Red Tonik includes ingredients to support nitric oxide production, which supports lower blood pressure and arterial stiffness and improvements in aerobic exercise function. (26)
- At $2.23 per serving, or $67 a jar, this is a more expensive investment than many other heart supplements, especially those that primarily include beetroot without the addition of other plant compounds.
- Red Tonik may be best for someone looking to support heart health as well as overall wellness and athletic endurance.
- With no added fillers, flavors, or colors, plus full disclosure of the amounts of each ingredient used and third-party testing, Red Tonic does offer high value and full transparency, which may validate the higher price for some people.
Why we like Human Tonik Red Tonik as best beet
Human Tonik Red Tonik includes 4,000 milligrams of beetroot in addition to 12 other plant compounds that support cardiovascular health, fight inflammation, and supply the body with antioxidants. Beets are high in nitrates, a precursor to nitric oxide, which improves endothelial function, reduces arterial stiffness, and stimulates smooth muscle relaxation for improved blood pressure. (27)
Red Tonik is made to mix with water and drink daily for the biggest benefits. And when it comes to beetroot’s effect on your heart, consistency may be key. One small study found that drinking beetroot juice daily for a week led to a reduction in blood pressure and improved aerobic endurance by 24% in patients with heart failure, while the placebo and the single dose of beetroot juice had no effect. (28)
However, Mohr reminds us that It’s important to understand the patient population in this study. “Female patients with existing heart failure who ranged in age from 62-73 were studied for one week, and this patient population demonstrated a benefit after one week of beetroot juice supplementation,” he explains. “While important to add to the overall data set around this topic, it’s impossible to extrapolate this to a younger, healthy population with the hopes of any risk reduction.”
Other ingredients in Red Tonik include cordyceps, cranberry, tart cherry, turmeric, pomegranate, goji, grape seed extract, resveratrol, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and ginger root extract. These plant compounds may help to improve circulation and support whole body wellness through their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and may offer unique benefits for your heart as well, particularly when consumed as whole foods. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric may help lower blood pressure and reduce oxidative stress in the body, improving cardiovascular risk factors like pulse wave velocity and lipid peroxidation. (29)
We love that Red Tonik is third-party tested by Eurofins, a reputable supplement testing laboratory. It’s also free from added fillers and preservatives, caffeine, dairy, soy, pesticides, mycotoxins, and heavy metals, and it is vegan and non-GMO. The label lists the amount of each plant compound and extract used, a transparency that’s valuable in evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the product.
While the $2.23 per serving price tag is a little steep compared to some other heart health supplements, you can reduce the price per serving to $1.65 if you purchase a bundle of six jars at once. The 365-day money-back guarantee may also add some peace of mind to the large investment.
What customers are saying
On Amazon, there are only 36 global ratings, with an average of 3.5 out of 5 stars. Features like the flavor and clean ingredient list seem to be the most popular, while many customers don’t feel the product meets the expectations of the high price tag.
The flavor is cranberry and berries, taking on the flavor of the sweet ingredients, which many customers seem to enjoy either mixed alone or into smoothies or juice.
Customers are quite hung up on the price of Red Tonik. Review headlines like “Premium ingredients at an eye popping price” and “Good Product, Holy Cow price!” are seen throughout. While the price may be enough to turn some customers away, others found it to actually be more economical than their current regimen.
An Amazon customer with the username “Surf” says, “This would be a fantastic alternative for someone who likes to take juice shots daily and purchases them. Price-wise this is around $2.50/serving which is cheaper than most juice shots even on sale, but is still $70+ for the container.”
Specs
Form | Powder |
Daily dose | 1 scoop |
Number of servings | 30 |
Third-party tested | Yes |
Key ingredients | Beetroot, cordyceps, cranberry, tart cherry, turmeric, pomegranate, goji, grape seed extract, resveratrol, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and ginger root extract |
Price per serving | $2.23 |
How we test supplements
At Fortune, we’re committed to providing supplement reviews you can trust. Our heart health supplement reviews provide unbiased information and details so you can evaluate the most important factors when choosing the right supplement for you and your health goals. Read about our supplement testing methodology to learn more about each factor we consider. Here are the most important factors we consider when reviewing supplements:
Efficacy—40%
Every supplement promises benefits, but whether or not those benefits are supported by the ingredients and dose isn’t always clear. We examine whether the supplement promises align with the amounts of ingredients used and whether there is sufficient clinical evidence and research available to support any claims.
Here’s what we look for:
- Clinical evidence
- Calories per serving
- Dose efficacy
- Synergistic effects
- Proprietary blends
Safety and side effects—35%
Safety when using supplements is incredibly important, as they’re not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration in the same way that medications are. We look for supplements that not only have thorough testing and a positive reputation but also are transparent about potential side effects and health risks.
We evaluate:
- Reported side effects
- Third-party testing
- Manufacturer accreditation
- Artificial sweeteners
Value—20%
The lowest price doesn’t always mean the lowest quality, just as the highest price doesn’t mean a superior product. We evaluate the price, quality, and efficacy to determine the true value of a supplement.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Price per serving
Customer experience—5%
As a customer, you experience everything from finding, purchasing, receiving, and using a product, and that feedback is valuable. We review customer experiences on third-party sites to see what the first-hand experience with the company and product entails and consider this in our rating process.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Ease of purchase
- Shipping and returns
- Customer support
What is a heart-healthy supplement?
A heart-healthy supplement supports the cardiovascular system by providing nutrients that keep the heart and blood vessels healthy and strong. While supplements for heart health can include any number of ingredients or nutrients, these are the most common ingredients you’ll find in them:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These essential fats, including DHA and EPA, help reduce inflammation, lower triglycerides, and support overall heart function. (21, 23)
- Magnesium: A mineral and electrolyte important for regulating heart rhythm and lowering blood pressure. (14)
- Antioxidants: Nutrients like vitamin E, vitamin C, CoQ10, and several plant compounds help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. These help to reduce oxidation which can lead to hardening and damage of blood vessels and reduce inflammation in the body. (30)
- Potassium: An electrolyte and mineral needed to balance sodium levels, regulate fluid in the blood vessels to maintain healthy blood pressure, and conduct electricity in the heart for a healthy rhythm. (18, 19)
- D3 and K2: Vitamins that work together to direct calcium to the bones and teeth, instead of building in the arteries, potentially reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. (3)
- Fiber: Soluble fiber, especially prebiotic fiber, helps lower cholesterol levels and supports healthy blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease. (31)
- Nitric oxide precursors: Ingredients like beetroot extract, L-citrulline, and L-arginine boost nitric oxide production, which helps relax blood vessels and improve circulation. (26, 27)
How to choose the best supplement for heart health
Choosing the best heart supplement for your needs depends on your specific health history and goals. Some supplements can support overall wellness, keeping your heart strong and healthy, while others may help address specific risk factors for heart disease like cholesterol levels or blood pressure.
To choose the best heart supplement for you, it’s important to know your current health status, including blood pressure, cholesterol, vitamin and mineral status, and inflammatory markers. Speak with your doctor to order the necessary lab work and to get their recommendations and strategies to support a healthy cardiovascular system.
Safety and supplements for heart health
The first step is to talk to your doctor to ensure any supplement you’re considering is appropriate for your goals and won’t interfere with your current medications and health conditions. Next, it is essential to buy from a reputable brand and ensure that the ingredients and doses are safe for you.
Some supplements that may benefit heart health may interact with other medications, with dangerous consequences.
Even if your physician approves the supplement you’re taking and has no potential medication interactions, it’s essential to make sure you’re purchasing it from a reputable brand that participates in third-party testing. Supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) like medications are, and in many cases, may include fraudulent claims, dangerous contaminants like heavy metals, unlisted ingredients, or ingredient amounts that are widely different from what’s listed on the label. (32) Third-party testing helps ensure purity and potency, so you know you’re getting exactly what the bottle says and nothing it doesn’t.
FAQs
What is the best supplement for a healthy heart?
The best supplement for a healthy heart depends on your diet and health status. Still, depending on your needs, it may include a vitamin D and K2 supplement, fish oil, fiber, or minerals like magnesium or potassium.
What is better for heart health, CoQ10 or fish oil?
CoQ10 and fish oil protect the heart differently, but they may be most beneficial when taken together. CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that may help protect the heart against oxidative stress and inflammation and seems to be particularly important for those who are currently taking statin drugs while the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil may benefit the heart by improving triglyceride levels. (23, 30)
Can supplements clear blocked arteries?
While no supplement can instantly unblock arteries, many can help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis by reducing cholesterol levels and keeping blood vessels flexible and open. Vitamins D and K2 can help redirect calcium away from arteries. (3) Nitric oxide precursors like beets and L-arginine may help support healthy blood vessels. (27) And fiber and fish oil may reduce blood cholesterol levels. (5, 21) Of course, any dietary supplements should never replace and instead should complement a high-quality, heart-healthy diet, regular exercise and quality sleep.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD
Dr. Chris Mohr is an internationally recognized subject matter expert and speaker and performance coach. Through his facilitation and online resources, he works closely with some of the largest corporations in the world including Deloitte, Delta Airlines, Johnson & Johnson and more to help busy executives all over the world, develop the energy to thrive personally and professionally.
Victoria Burgess, Ph.D., CSCS, CISSN
Victoria Burgess earned her Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance from Concordia University Chicago and holds her NSCA CSCS and Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN). She is an adjunct professor in the Human Performance and Nutrition department at Concordia University Chicago & Parker University, where she teaches undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level courses.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica is a contributing editor and writer for Fortune Recommends who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Joana Neziri, M.S., NASM-CPT
Joana is a writer, editor, and content strategist focusing on nutrition, fitness, and all things health. After earning a master’s degree in business from the University of North Florida, she began a career in research and digital marketing.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Kelsey Kunik, RDN
Fortune Recommends Nutrition Writer