When it comes to heart health, over 5.3 million people in France are affected by cardiovascular diseases, according to the Ministry of Health. Many of these individuals rely on medications like blood thinners and drugs to regulate blood pressure. With the growing popularity of supplements aimed at improving heart health, it’s essential to be cautious. Dr. Danielle Belardo, a Los Angeles-based cardiologist, recently shared her insights on supplements that may pose risks, especially for those with heart conditions. Here are four supplements she advises using with caution.
Turmeric: Potential for Liver Damage and Blood Thinning
Turmeric has been praised for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits for heart health. However, Dr. Belardo warns that high doses of turmeric can be harmful. Not only can it cause liver damage, but it also has a blood-thinning effect. When combined with anticoagulant medications, turmeric can increase the risk of dangerous bleeding. The British Heart Foundation also highlights this risk, emphasizing the need for caution.
Green Tea Extract: Risk of Elevated Blood Pressure
Green tea extract is often touted for its ability to enhance mental clarity and promote weight loss, as noted by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). However, Dr. Belardo points out that the caffeine in green tea extract can raise blood pressure, posing a concern for those with hypertension. Excessive caffeine intake, including through green tea extract, can also lead to heart palpitations, further complicating heart health.
St. John’s Wort: Interference with Heart Medications
St. John’s Wort, a yellow-flowered plant with a long history in traditional European medicine, is commonly used to treat mild to moderate depression. However, Dr. Belardo stresses that it can significantly interact with various medications, leading to adverse effects. For heart patients, St. John’s Wort can reduce the effectiveness of digoxin, used for certain arrhythmias, and ivabradine, prescribed for chronic heart failure, as noted by the NIH.
Bitter Orange: Linked to Irregular Heartbeats
Bitter orange, also known as Citrus aurantium, is a popular ingredient in weight loss and bodybuilding products. Dr. Belardo cautions that even in healthy individuals, bitter orange can have harmful effects. It has been associated with irregular heartbeats, known as arrhythmias, and can raise both blood pressure and heart rate, which can be detrimental to heart health.
The Importance of Consulting a Healthcare Professional
Dr. Belardo strongly recommends consulting a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, especially if you’re already on medication for heart issues. It’s crucial to ensure that the supplements you take don’t interfere with your treatment plan or pose additional risks to your heart health.
In the complex world of supplements and heart health, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Your heart is worth it.
