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How do you strengthen your heart?
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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Strengthening your heart involves a number of healthy habits, lifestyle changes, medications and vitamins that can help maintain and improve your heart health.
Drugs to strengthen the heart
A variety of medications can be used to strengthen the heart and keep it healthy. However, the choice of specific medications and their dosages should be made by the doctor based on the patient's individual needs and medical history. Below are some of the medications that can be used to strengthen the heart:
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Beta-adrenoblockers:
- Examples: metoprolol (Metoprolol), bisoprolol (Bisoprolol), carvedilol (Carvedilol).
- The dosage and method of administration depend on the specific drug and the patient's condition. They help reduce the strain on the heart by lowering heart rate and blood pressure.
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Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs):
- Examples: enalapril (Enalapril), lisinopril (Lisinopril), ramipril (Ramipril).
- These drugs help to lower blood pressure and reduce the strain on the heart. The dosage is determined by your doctor.
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Angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARA II):
- Examples: valsartan (Valsartan), losartan (Losartan), irbesartan (Irbesartan).
- ARA IIs are also used to control blood pressure and reduce the workload of the heart. The dosage depends on the drug and the patient's condition.
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Diuretics:
- Examples: furosemide (Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide (Hydrochlorothiazide), spironolactone (Spironolactone).
- Diuretics may help reduce swelling and excess fluid in the body. The dosage is determined by your doctor.
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Digoxin:
- Digoxin (Digoxin) is sometimes used to improve heart contractility and control heart rhythm. The dosage is strictly controlled by your doctor.
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Antiaggregants and anticoagulants:
- Examples: acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), warfarin (Coumadin), rivaroxaban (Xarelto).
- These drugs may be prescribed to prevent thrombosis and improve blood flow to the heart.
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Statins:
- Examples: atorvastatin (Atorvastatin), simvastatin (Simvastatin), rosuvastatin (Rosuvastatin).
- Statins are used to lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.
Remember that the use of any medication should be coordinated with a doctor, and dosages should be strictly observed. Even when strengthening the heart, self-medication can be dangerous. Each patient has unique needs and medical history, so only a doctor can prescribe the right treatment.
Vitamins and minerals to strengthen the heart
Vitamins and minerals that may be helpful in maintaining a healthy heart may include the following products and their names:
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Omega-3 fatty acids:
- Drugs with omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may be useful for lowering blood triglyceride levels. Examples include Lovaza and Vascepa.
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Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone):
- Coenzyme Q10 drugs may help maintain energy metabolism in the heart muscle. Examples include CoQ10 and Ubiquinol.
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Vitamin D:
- Vitamin D may help maintain heart and blood vessel health. Vitamin D supplements are available under different brands and names.
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Folic acid:
- Folic acid (vitamin B9) may be useful in controlling blood levels of homocysteine, which is associated with cardiovascular disease risk. Examples include "Folic Acid" and "L-Methylfolate".
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Potassium and magnesium:
- Potassium and magnesium preparations may be prescribed by your doctor to maintain normal electrolyte balance and heart function.
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Antioxidants:
- Antioxidants such as Vitamin E and Vitamin C may help protect the heart from free radical damage. Examples include Vitamin E and Vitamin C.
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Vitamin K2:
- Vitamin K2 may help manage calcium deposition in blood vessels. Examples include "MK-7" (menaquinone-7).
Please consult your physician or cardiologist for recommendations on specific vitamins and minerals that may be beneficial to you based on your health and medical conditions. Keep in mind that the dosage and duration of such medications should also be coordinated with your doctor.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients play an important role in maintaining cardiovascular health. Here are a few micronutrients that may help strengthen the heart:
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Magnesium:
- Magnesium is essential for the normal functioning of the heart and blood vessels. It is involved in regulating heart rhythm and lowering blood pressure. Magnesium can be obtained from nuts, seeds, vegetables (especially spinach) and whole grain products.
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Potassium:
- Potassium plays a key role in maintaining electrolyte balance and normal heart contractility. Bananas, potatoes, dried apricots and nuts are good sources of potassium.
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Calcium:
- Calcium is important for the contractility of the heart muscle and is involved in the transmission of nerve impulses in the heart. Dairy products, broccoli, almonds and figs are rich sources of calcium.
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Selenium:
- Selenium is an antioxidant that helps protect the heart from oxidative stress and inflammation. It is found in fish, meat, buckwheat and nuts.
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Zinc:
- Zinc supports heart muscle health and is involved in metabolism. It is found in meat, dairy products and nuts.
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Copper:
- Copper is involved in the formation of collagen, which is important for healthy blood vessels, and in energy production in heart cells. It is found in meat, fish, nuts and seeds.
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Iron:
- Iron helps transport oxygen to tissues and cells, including the heart. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which can increase the workload of the heart. Iron is found in meat, fish, and whole grain products.
It is important to remember that the balance of micronutrients in the body plays an important role, and an excess or deficiency of a micronutrient can affect heart health. The best way to get micronutrients is through a varied and balanced diet that includes foods from different food groups. If you have concerns or need additional micronutrient intake, be sure to consult with your doctor or nutritionist to develop a suitable diet and supplementation plan.
Heart health supplements
There are many dietary supplements (dietary supplements) of various brands that may be advertised as heart-healthy and cardiovascular health promoting. However, it is important to remember that the efficacy and safety of supplements can vary, and not all of them have sufficient scientific research to support their efficacy.
Here are some brand names and examples of supplements that may be associated with strengthening the heart. However, I recommend consulting your doctor before starting any dietary supplements:
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CoQ10 (ubiquinone):
- Coenzyme Q10 supplements may be useful for maintaining energy metabolism in the heart muscle. Examples: Qunol, Nature Made CoQ10, Doctor's Best CoQ10.
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Fish oil (Omega-3 fatty acids):
- Supplements with omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) can help lower triglycerides and support heart health. Examples: Nordic Naturals, Nature's Bounty, NOW Omega-3.
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Red yeast rice butter:
- This supplement may help lower blood cholesterol levels. Examples: Nature's Plus, Solaray Red Yeast Rice, Thorne Research Choleast.
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Magnesium and potassium:
- Supplements containing magnesium and potassium may be helpful in maintaining normal electrolyte balance and heart function. Examples: Nature Made Magnesium, NOW Magnesium, Nature's Bounty Potassium.
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Vitamin D:
- Vitamin D may help support vascular and immune system health. Examples: Nature's Way Vitamin D3, Nature Made Vitamin D3, NOW Vitamin D3.
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Vitamin K2:
- Vitamin K2 supplements can help manage calcium deposition in blood vessels. Examples: Life Extension Super K, Doctor's Best Natural Vitamin K2.
Remember that the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements may depend on each person's individual characteristics and medical condition. It is important to consult your doctor before starting to take supplements, especially if you have a serious medical condition or are taking other medications. Also, make sure that the dietary supplement you choose is reputable and meets quality standards.
Herbs to strengthen the heart
There are several herbs and plants that are traditionally used to strengthen the heart and maintain cardiovascular health. However, keep in mind that the use of herbs and plants should be coordinated with your doctor, especially if you have serious heart problems or are taking medications. Below are some herbs that may be beneficial for heart health:
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Garlic (Allium sativum):
- Garlic contains alicin, which can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, which has a positive effect on heart health.
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Nettle (Urtica dioica):
- Nettles are rich in antioxidants and can help improve circulation and lower blood pressure.
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Melissa (Melissa officinalis):
- Melissa can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can have a positive effect on heart health.
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Mother and stepmother (Tussilago farfara):
- This herb can be used to improve circulation and relieve symptoms of heart failure.
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Hawthorn (Crataegus):
- Hawthorn is often used to strengthen the heart and improve heart muscle function.
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Olive (Olea europaea):
- Olive leaves can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
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Sage (Salvia officinalis):
- Sage may be useful for improving heart function and lowering blood pressure.
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Herea (Potentilla):
- Hereafter, it can help in strengthening blood vessels and improving circulation.
It is important to note that using herbs and plants for medicinal purposes requires caution and should be coordinated with your doctor, especially if you have medical problems or are taking medications. Uncontrolled consumption of herbs and plants can cause side effects and interactions with other medications.
Tinctures to strengthen the heart
There are several tinctures and herbal remedies that are traditionally used to strengthen the heart and keep it healthy. It is important to note that before you start using any herbal remedies or tinctures, especially if you already have a heart condition or are taking medications, you should consult your doctor. Here are some of the best known tinctures for strengthening the heart:
- Motherwort tincture: Motherwort is known for its calming and relaxing properties. Motherwort tincture can help reduce stress and tension, which is beneficial for heart health. Motherwort is usually taken in tincture form, according to the instructions on the package.
- HawthornTincture: Hawthorn is known for its cardioprotective properties and ability to improve blood circulation. Hawthorn tincture can be used to support heart health. It is usually taken in tincture form as directed.
- Melissa (citron mint) tincture: Melissa has calming properties and can help reduce stress and insomnia, which has positive effects on heart health. Melissa tincture can be taken as a tea or tincture.
- Garlictincture: Garlic contains alicin, which can help lower blood cholesterol and improve heart and vascular health. Garlic tincture can be prepared by infusing garlic in alcohol and taken as directed.
- Turmeric tincture: Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It can be beneficial for maintaining heart health. A tincture of alternaria can be prepared by infusing the herb in alcohol.
- Green tea tincture: Green tea is rich in antioxidants that may help protect the heart from damage. Drinking green tea as a beverage may be beneficial for heart health.
When using tinctures and herbal remedies, follow the recommendations on the package or your doctor's instructions. Uncontrolled use of large doses of herbal remedies can be harmful. Tinctures are usually taken orally, dissolved in a small amount of water or other liquid as directed.
Heart-strengthening teas
There are many types of teas that can help strengthen the heart and keep it healthy. Below are some of them:
- Green Tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants such as catechins, which can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure and improve vascular function.
- Black tea: Black tea also contains antioxidants and may help reduce the risk of heart disease. It helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
- Hibiscustea: Hibiscus tea can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels due to the antioxidants and flavonoids found in hibiscus.
- Olive leaf tea: Olive leaf tea is rich in oleuropein, which can help lower cholesterol and support heart health.
- Chaste tea: Chaste tea is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It can help strengthen the heart and blood vessels.
- Ginger Tea: Ginger tea can help improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and support heart health.
- Melissa Tea: Melissa tea has calming properties and can help reduce stress and tension, which is beneficial for heart health.
- Burdock root tea: This tea can help lower blood pressure and support heart vessel health.
To maximize the benefits of heart tea, consume it in moderation and in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, physical activity and stress management.
The importance of exercise and sport in strengthening the heart
Exercise and sports play an important role in strengthening the heart and keeping it healthy. Here are the benefits they bring to the cardiac system:
- Heart muscle strengthening: Physical exercise such as aerobic exercise (running, walking, swimming) helps strengthen the heart's most important muscle, the myocardium. This improves the heart's contractile function and its ability to pump blood.
- Lower blood pressure: Regular exercise helps to dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure. This helps to reduce the strain on the heart and blood vessels.
- Improved cardiorespiratory endurance: Physical activity improves lung function and the body's ability to efficiently deliver oxygen to tissues. Increased cardiorespiratory endurance means that the heart can work more efficiently, even with physical exertion.
- Lowering cholesterol: Moderate to vigorous exercise can help reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and increase the level of "good" cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. This reduces the risk of plaque formation on blood vessel walls.
- Weight management: Physical activity helps you burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can put more strain on your heart and increase your risk of heart disease.
- Stress Reduction: Exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety, which has a positive effect on the heart. Stress can raise blood pressure and stress hormone levels, which can be bad for heart health.
- Improved general well-being: Regular physical activity promotes the production of endorphins, neurohormones that cause feelings of fulfillment and joy. This can improve psychological well-being and overall well-being.
It is important to note that regularity is necessary to strengthen the heart. It is recommended to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week or at least 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, according to World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.
It is important to consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program, especially if you have medical problems or limitations. Nevertheless, exercise and sports can be an important part of a healthy lifestyle and are an affordable way to maintain heart health.
Exercises to strengthen the heart
Exercises to strengthen your heart and cardiorespiratory system can help you improve your overall health and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. Here are a few types of these exercises and recommendations on how to do them:
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Aerobic exercise:
- Running: Running is a great way to strengthen your heart. Start at a slow pace and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your running.
- Walking: Brisk walking also helps strengthen the cardiovascular system. Try walking briskly for 30-60 minutes a day.
- Bicycling: Bicycling effectively improves cardiac endurance. Regular cycling in the city or in nature is good for your health.
- Swimming: Swimming is great for exercising your heart and lungs while reducing stress on your joints.
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Exercise machines:
- Treadmill: Working out on a treadmill allows you to control your speed and incline, which is good for cardiovascular training.
- Elliptical trainer: This trainer provides a quiet and low-impact aerobic workout.
- BicycleTrainer: Bicycletrainers allow you to simulate riding a bicycle in a comfortable environment.
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High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT training involves short periods of intense exercise alternated with periods of rest. For example, 30 seconds of running at top speed followed by 30 seconds of rest. This helps improve endurance and heart health.
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Outdoor Exercise: Spend time outdoors doing active activities such as walking, running, bicycling or playing outside games for additional heart health benefits.
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Strength training: Include strength training exercises in your exercise program to strengthen muscles and bones. Strength exercises such as pull-ups, push-ups, and dumbbell exercises can complement aerobic exercise.
Keep the following guidelines in mind when performing the exercises:
- Start at a low intensity and gradually increase the load.
- Coordinate your exercise program with your doctor, especially if you have any medical problems.
- Listen to your body and stop exercising if unusual symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain or shortness of breath occur.