It’s a topic that comes up in the media a lot; it’s something we here at About Health mention frequently too – but just what exactly are we referring to when we talk about heart health?
The first obvious thought is the heart, and that’s true, but actually ‘heart health’ is typically used as a cover-all statement when we’re talking about the cardiovascular system. The cardiovascular system includes the heart muscle itself, the network of blood vessels (arteries, capillaries and veins) as well as our blood. And it’s an impressive system – your heart beats thousands of times daily to help circulate blood through an expansive network of vessels throughout the body.
As you can imagine, there are a number of factors that can influence the body’s ability to carry out this important task efficiently – these are what we typically refer to as ‘heart health’ factors:
- Healthy heart tissue – the heart is a muscle and must contract rhythmically for optimal efficiency; it also needs a steady supply of blood, oxygen and nutrients
- Blood pressure – this measures the force of blood against your blood vessels; too high can place strain on these vessels, and too low may affect delivery of oxygen and nutrients
- Cholesterol – often misunderstood, balanced levels of cholesterol are essential for cellular structure, hormone synthesis and fat metabolism
A heart that works too hard can be just as inefficient as one that doesn’t work hard enough. This idea links to the concept of homeostasis – the body’s ability to maintain balance within certain ranges for healthy functioning. From a heart health perspective, several lifestyle and genetic factors may affect this balance, such as:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Unbalanced cholesterol levels
- High blood sugar levels
- Blood vessel stress from inflammation
- Unhealthy weight
- Sedentary habits
- Nutrient-poor diet
- Family history and genetic predisposition
The good news is that many of these can be supported through lifestyle changes such as regular movement, balanced nutrition, and avoiding smoking. Sometimes, even with a healthy lifestyle, additional support through nutrition may be beneficial.
Key nutrients often associated with supporting cardiovascular health include:
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Omega 3 essential fatty acids
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Coenzyme Q10
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Magnesium
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Resveratrol
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Polyphenols (plant antioxidants)
Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)
Commonly sourced from fish oil, omega 3 EFAs have been widely recognised for their ability to support multiple aspects of general wellbeing. When it comes to heart health, they are known for their role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, supporting normal blood pressure and encouraging healthy circulation. Omega 3s are also valued for their ability to help maintain the body’s inflammatory response within a normal range.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
This important nutrient is found in nearly every cell in the body and is closely involved in energy production. CoQ10 also plays a role in supporting cellular integrity and is often associated with maintaining healthy cardiovascular function. It's also commonly used by individuals looking to support their energy levels and general vitality, especially if they are managing their cholesterol levels with medication.
Magnesium
Often associated with relaxation and muscle comfort, magnesium also plays a key role in cardiovascular wellbeing. Adequate magnesium levels support healthy blood pressure, balanced cholesterol, and general heart rhythm. Low magnesium intake can be more common than we think due to modern diets, increased stress, and other factors. Choosing a form that offers high bioavailability can help support daily needs.
Resveratrol & Polyphenols
Resveratrol, found in red grapes and certain berries, is a naturally occurring antioxidant that’s often associated with healthy ageing and cardiovascular support. It is part of a broader group called polyphenols – plant-based compounds known for their antioxidant properties. These nutrients are linked to maintaining healthy blood flow, supporting the health of blood vessel walls, and helping to balance the body's natural response to oxidative stress. When taken as part of a blend with other plant compounds, polyphenols may offer enhanced nutritional support.
There’s a lot to consider when it comes to heart health – or any aspect of wellbeing. It’s not about just one factor or one nutrient, but the cumulative effect of many lifestyle choices. Eat well, stay active, enjoy life, and where appropriate, consider nutritional support from validated natural health products. Your cardiovascular system will thank you.
We’ve written more on this topic, especially highlighting the ingredients and insights behind our own Lester’s Oil, which includes omega 3, CoQ10 and other supportive nutrients.
