Exploring the Effectiveness of Popular "Heart Health" Supplements

Many supplements claim to improve heart health, but are any of them actually helpful?

This article discusses six common supplements: fish oil (Omega-3 EPA/DHA), Coenzyme Q10 “CoQ10,” red yeast rice, vitamin D, fiber, and phytosterols. For each entry, Baylor Scott & White hospital lists risks and side effects, recommended intake, and foods in which the supplement naturally occurs.

The supplements vary in effectiveness. Fiber, red yeast rice, and phytosterols can help lower cholesterol, even though natural food sources and supplements have different impact. Fish oils and CoQ10 can aid people with preexisting heart conditions. Fish oils also support the heart health of people with coronary heart disease, and CoQ10 supports the heart health of people with congestive heart failure. In contrast, studies have shown no benefit to vitamin D supplements.

Overall, it’s important to speak with our health care provider about our heart health and if certain supplements may be helpful. We can get the highest quality by choosing supplements that have a USP stamp or that have been tested by independent organizations.

Remember, dietary supplements are just that—supplements. Supplements cannot replace a healthy diet, so be sure to think about your total diet first before strolling down the supplement aisle. The nutrients in foods cannot all be isolated, replicated into a pill and have the same effects when compared to their whole food form.

SOURCE: Baylor Scott & White Health • LAST UPDATED: February 3, 2023