Vitamins for the heart: recent scientific research

Vitamins for the heart: recent scientific research

Content:

Introduction to vitamins and heart health
- 1.1. The role of vitamins in the body and cardiovascular system
- 1.2. The importance of a balanced diet to maintain heart health
- 1.3. A brief overview of the main vitamins associated with the health of the heart
Vitamin D: sunlight for the heart
- 2.1. Vitamin D action mechanisms for the cardiovascular system
  - 2.1.1. Impact on blood pressure
  - 2.1.2. Role in reducing inflammation
  - 2.1.3. Impact on the function of the endothelium
- 2.2. Epidemiological studies and the relationship of vitamin D deficiency with cardiovascular diseases
- 2.3. Clinical tests and additives of vitamin D: evidence and contradictions
- 2.4. Optimal levels of vitamin D for heart health and recommended doses
- 2.5. Sources of vitamin D: power, sunlight and additives
Vitamin K: Calcification and arterial health
- 3.1. Various forms of vitamin K: k1 and k2 (menachinon)
- 3.2. The role of vitamin K in blood coagulation and bone metabolism
- 3.3. Vitamin K2 action mechanism in preventing the calcification of arteries
  - 3.3.1. Activation of GLA proteins (Matrix GLA-Belka and Osteokalcin)
  - 3.3.2. Inhibition of calcium deposit in the arterial wall
- 3.4. Studies connecting high consumption of vitamin K2 with improving heart health
- 3.5. Sources of vitamin K1 and K2 in food: greens, fermented foods (NATTO) and animal products
- 3.6. Vitamin K2 additives: necessity and dosage recommendations
B vitamins B: Complex effect on the heart
- 4.1. Vitamin B1 (thiamine): role in the energy metabolism of the heart
  - 4.1.1. The relationship of thiamine deficiency with heart failure (Beri-Bury)
- 4.2. Vitamin B3 (niacin): influence on cholesterol and triglycerides
  - 4.2.1. Niacin action mechanisms in lipid decrease
  - 4.2.2. Side effects of niacin and strategies for their minimization
- 4.3. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): participation in homocysteine metabolism
  - 4.3.1. Connection of high level of homocysteine with cardiovascular diseases
  - 4.3.2. The role of vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid in a decrease in homocystein level
- 4.4. Vitamin B9 (folic acid): prevention of nervous tube defects and heart health
  - 4.4.1. The mechanism of action of folic acid in a decrease in homocysteine level
  - 4.4.2. The effect of enrichment of folic acid nutrition on public health
- 4.5. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): the role in the formation of red blood cells and the functions of the nervous system
  - 4.5.1. The relationship of vitamin B12 deficiency with a high level of homocysteine and the risk of cardiovascular diseases
- 4.6. Recommended doses of group B vitamins and sources in food
- 4.7. B vitamins interaction and other drugs
Vitamin C: antioxidant protection for the heart
- 5.1. The antioxidant properties of vitamin C and its role in protection against oxidative stress
- 5.2. Vitamin C action mechanisms for the cardiovascular system
  - 5.2.1. Improving the function of the endothelium
  - 5.2.2. Decrease in blood pressure
  - 5.2.3. Prevention of LDL oxidation (low density lipoproteins)
- 5.3. Epidemiological studies connecting high consumption of vitamin C with an improvement in heart health
- 5.4. Clinical tests of vitamin C additives: results and restrictions
- 5.5. Optimum doses of vitamin C for heart health and sources in food (fruits and vegetables)
Vitamin E: Protection of lipids from oxidation
- 6.1. Various forms of vitamin E: tocopherols and tocotrienols
- 6.2. The antioxidant properties of vitamin E and its role in protecting lipids from oxidation
- 6.3. Vitamin E action mechanisms on the cardiovascular system
  - 6.3.1. Prevention of LDL oxidation
  - 6.3.2. Improving the function of the endothelium
  - 6.3.3. Decrease in inflammation
- 6.4. Clinical tests of vitamin E additives: conflicting results and current recommendations
- 6.5. Sources of vitamin E in food: vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and herbs
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Energy for the heart
- 7.1. The role of Coenzyme Q10 in the production of cellular energy (ATP)
- 7.2. The antioxidant properties of Coenzyme Q10
- 7.3. The connection of the Coenzyme deficiency Q10 with cardiac failure and other cardiovascular diseases
- 7.4. Clinical tests of Coenzyme additives Q10 with heart failure and other heart diseases
- 7.5. Safety and side effects of Coenzyme additives Q10
- 7.6. Sources of Q10 Coenzyme in food and additives
Minerals and heart health: synergistic interaction
- 8.1. Magnesium: role in the regulation of heart rhythm and blood pressure
  - 8.1.1. Magnesium action mechanisms on the cardiovascular system
  - 8.1.2. The connection of magnesium deficiency with arrhythmias and hypertension
  - 8.1.3. Sources of magnesium in food: greens, nuts, seeds and whole grains
- 8.2. Potassium: maintaining the balance of electrolytes and blood pressure
  - 8.2.1. Potassium action mechanisms on the cardiovascular system
  - 8.2.2. The connection of potassium deficiency with hypertension and arrhythmias
  - 8.2.3. Sources of potassium in food: bananas, avocados, potatoes and tomatoes
- 8.3. Calcium: necessary for muscle contraction, including the heart muscle
  - 8.3.1. Regulation of the level of calcium in the blood and its effect on the cardiovascular system
  - 8.3.2. The importance of calcium and magnesium balance for heart health
  - 8.3.3. Sources of calcium in food: dairy products, greens and enriched products
- 8.4. Selenium: Antioxidant and protection against cardiomyopathies
  - 8.4.1. Selena’s action mechanisms in heart protection
  - 8.4.2. The connection of selenium deficiency with cardiomyopathy (Keshan disease)
  - 8.4.3. Sources of Selena in food: Brazilian nuts, seafood and meat
Interaction of vitamins and drugs for the heart
- 9.1. Potential interactions of vitamins with anticoagulants (warfarin)
  - 9.1.1. The effect of vitamin K on blood coagulation and the need to monitor the MOS (international normalized attitude)
- 9.2. Interaction of vitamins with drugs that reduce cholesterol (statins)
  - 9.2.1. The effect of niacin on lipid metabolism and potential side effects when jointly used with statins
  - 9.2.2. The role of Q10 coenzyme in softening the side effects of statins (muscle pain)
- 9.3. Interaction of vitamins with antihypertension drugs
  - 9.3.1. The effect of magnesium and potassium on blood pressure and potential interaction with diuretics
- 9.4. The importance of consulting a doctor before taking vitamin additives in the presence of cardiovascular diseases and taking drugs
Future areas of studies of vitamins and heart health
- 10.1. The need for larger and long-term clinical trials to assess the effect of vitamins on cardiovascular outcomes
- 10.2. Studying the interaction of various vitamins and their synergistic effect on the health of the heart
- 10.3. Development of personalized strategies for taking vitamins based on the genetic and metabolic features of each person
- 10.4. The study of the role of intestinal microbiota in vitamins metabolism and their influence on the cardiovascular system
- 10.5. The study of the influence of new forms of vitamins (for example, liposomal forms) on bioavailability and effectiveness

Detailed description of the sections:

1. Introduction to vitamins and heart health

1.1. The role of vitamins in the body and cardiovascular system

Vitamins are organic compounds necessary for the normal functioning of the body. They are not produced in the body (or produced in insufficient quantities) and should come with food or additives. Vitamins are involved in many biochemical processes, including energy metabolism, DNA synthesis, immune system function and oxidative stress protection. For the cardiovascular system, vitamins play an important role in maintaining the health of blood vessels, regulating blood pressure, reducing inflammation and preventing blood clots. The deficiency of certain vitamins can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

1.2. The importance of a balanced diet to maintain heart health

A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat sources of protein and healthy fats, is the basis of the health of the heart. Such a diet provides the body with the necessary vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, which jointly work to maintain the normal function of the cardiovascular system. The restriction of the consumption of saturated and trans fats, sodium and added sugar is also important for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Although a balanced diet is a priority, in some cases, taking vitamin additives can be useful for filling the deficiency or achieving optimal levels of certain vitamins.

1.3. A brief overview of the main vitamins associated with the health of the heart

Some vitamins are especially important for the health of the heart, including vitamins D, K, group B (B1, B3, B6, B9, B12), C and E. Vitamin D plays a role in the regulation of blood pressure and inflammation. Vitamin K helps prevent the calcification of arteries. B vitamins are involved in the metabolism of homocysteine and energy metabolism. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant protecting from oxidative stress. Vitamin E also has antioxidant properties and helps protect lipids from oxidation. In the subsequent sections of this article, we will examine in detail the role of each of these vitamins in the health of the heart, as well as the latest scientific research in this area.

2. Vitamin D: sunlight for the heart

2.1. Vitamin D action mechanisms for the cardiovascular system

Vitamin D, often called “solar vitamin”, plays an important role not only in bone health, but also in the functioning of the cardiovascular system. The mechanisms of its action on the heart and blood vessels are diverse and include:

*2.1.1. Влияние на артериальное давление*

Vitamin D is involved in the regulation of blood pressure through several mechanisms. It suppresses the production of renin, a hormone that increases blood pressure. In addition, vitamin D helps to expand blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of hypertension.

*2.1.2. Роль в снижении воспаления*

Inflammation plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin D has anti -inflammatory properties, suppressing the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines and enhancing the synthesis of anti -inflammatory substances. This helps reduce inflammation in the blood vessels and reduce the risk of atherosclerotic plaques.

*2.1.3. Воздействие на функцию эндотелия*

Endothelium is the inner layer of cells lining the blood vessels. It plays an important role in the regulation of blood flow, blood pressure and blood coagulation. Vitamin D improves the function of the endothelium, stimulating the production of nitrogen oxide (NO), which is a powerful vasodilator. This helps to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of endothelial dysfunction, which is one of the early signs of cardiovascular diseases.

2.2. Epidemiological studies and the relationship of vitamin D deficiency with cardiovascular diseases

Numerous epidemiological studies have shown the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, including:

Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Coronary heart disease (coronary heart)
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
Stroke
Heart failure
Peripheral arterial disease

For example, the meta-analysis of several studies showed that people with a low level of vitamin D have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and death from these diseases. However, it is important to note that these studies show only a connection, but do not prove a causal relationship.

2.3. Clinical tests and additives of vitamin D: evidence and contradictions

The results of clinical trials studying the effects of vitamin D additives on cardiovascular outcomes were ambiguous. Some studies have shown that vitamin D additives can reduce blood pressure, improve endothelial function and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, especially in people with vitamin D deficiency. However, other studies did not reveal the significant effect of vitamin D additives on cardiovascular outcome.

For example, a large randomized controlled study of Vital (Vitamin D and Omega-3 Trit) did not show a significant reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, death from cardiovascular diseases) when taking 2,000 vitamin D per day for 5 years. Nevertheless, some subgroup tests have shown that vitamin D additives can be useful for people with vitamin D deficiency or with a high risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The ambiguous results of clinical trials can be associated with various factors, including:

Different doses of vitamin D
Different duration of research
Various characteristics of participants (for example, the initial level of vitamin D, the presence of cardiovascular diseases)
Different endpoints (for example, decreased blood pressure, reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events)

Further studies are needed to determine the optimal dose of vitamin D and to identify groups of people who can get the greatest benefits from vitamin D additives for heart health.

2.4. Optimal levels of vitamin D for heart health and recommended doses

The optimal level of vitamin D in the blood for the health of the heart remains the subject of discussions. Most experts recommend maintaining the level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25 (OH) D) in the range of 30-50 ng/ml (75-125 nmol/L).

Recommended doses of vitamin D vary depending on age, the initial level of vitamin D, health status and other factors. In general, adults are recommended to take 600-800 IU vitamin D per day. People with vitamin D deficiency may require a higher dose (for example, 1000-2000 IU per day) to achieve the optimal level.

It is important to note that taking high doses of vitamin D without a doctor’s control can be dangerous and lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood).

2.5. Sources of vitamin D: power, sunlight and additives

Vitamin D can be obtained from three main sources:

Sunlight: The skin produces vitamin D under the influence of ultraviolet rays b (UVB) sunlight. However, the amount of vitamin D produced by the skin depends on many factors, including the time of year, time of day, geographical position, skin color and the use of sunscreen.
Food: some foods contain vitamin D, including oily fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolks and enriched products (milk, yogurt, orange juice). However, the content of vitamin D in food is usually small, so it is difficult to get a sufficient amount of vitamin D only from food.
Addresses: Vitamin D additives are available in two forms: vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Vitamin D3 is usually considered more effective than vitamin D2 in an increase in vitamin D levels in the blood.

To maintain the optimal level of vitamin D, a combination of sunlight, nutrition and additives may be required, especially in the winter months or for people with limited sun stay.

3. Vitamin K: calcification and arterial health

3.1. Various forms of vitamin K: k1 and k2 (menachinon)

Vitamin K is a group of fat -soluble vitamins necessary for blood coagulation and bone health. There are two main forms of vitamin K:

Vitamin K1 (Phillokhinon): It is mainly found in green leafy vegetables (spinach, cabbage, broccoli).
Vitamin K2 (menachinon): produced by bacteria in the intestines and is contained in enzyme products (NATTO, acidic cabbage) and some products of animal origin (meat, cheese). There are various subtypes of vitamin K2, designated as MK-4, MK-7, MK-9, etc., depending on the length of the side chain. The MK-7 has a longer half-life in the body and is considered more effective than the MK-4.

3.2. The role of vitamin K in blood coagulation and bone metabolism

Vitamin K is necessary to activate blood coagulation factors that are involved in the formation of a blood clot and stop bleeding. Vitamin K deficiency can lead to bleeding.

Vitamin K also plays an important role in bone metabolism, activating osteocalcine protein, which binds calcium and promotes bone mineralization. Vitamin K deficiency can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

3.3. Vitamin K2 action mechanism in preventing the calcification of arteries

Vitamin K2 plays an important role in the prevention of calcification of arteries, a process in which calcium is deposited in the walls of the arteries, making them strict and less elastic. Calcification of arteries is a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension and coronary heart disease.

*3.3.1. Активация белков Gla (матрикс Gla-белка и остеокальцина)*

Vitamin K2 activates the vitamin K-dependent proteins called GLA proteins (gamma-carboxiglutamate proteins). Two important GLA proteins participating in the prevention of calcification of arteries include:

Matrix GLA-BOLOK (MGP): is a powerful inhibitor of calcification of arteries. It binds calcium and prevents its deposition in the walls of arteries. Vitamin K2 is necessary for activating MGP.
Osteokalcin: Although osteokalcin is mainly known for its role in bone metabolism, it can also play a role in preventing the calcification of arteries. Activated by vitamin K2 osteokalcin can bind calcium and prevent its deposition in soft tissues, including arteries.

3.3.2. Inhibition of calcium deposit in the arterial wall

Activated by vitamin K2 GLA proteins, such as MGP, inhibit calcium deposition in the arterial wall, preventing the progression of carcination of arteries. They can also contribute to the removal of already deposited calcium from the arteries.

3.4. Studies connecting high consumption of vitamin K2 with improving heart health

Several observational studies showed a connection between high consumption of vitamin K2 and improving the health of the heart.

For example, a Rotterdam study, a large population study conducted in the Netherlands, showed that people who consumed more vitamin K2 (especially MK-7) had less risk of developing arteries, coronary heart disease and death from cardiovascular diseases.

Other studies also showed that vitamin K2 additives can improve arterial elasticity and reduce the risk of progression of arterial calcification in people with a high risk of cardiovascular disease.

3.5. Sources of vitamin K1 and K2 in food: greens, fermented foods (NATTO) and animal products

Vitamin K1 (Phillokhinon): The main sources are green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, cabbage, broccoli, Romen and parsley salad.
Vitamin K2 (Menakhinon): Contained in fermented products such as NATTO (Japanese fermented soy product), acidic cabbage and some types of cheese. It is also contained in small quantities in animal products, such as meat, eggs and dairy products (especially from animals feeding on grass). Nato is the richest source of vitamin K2 (MK-7).

3.6. Vitamin K2 additives: necessity and dosage recommendations

Although vitamin K1 is easy to get from green leafy vegetables, obtaining a sufficient amount of vitamin K2 only from food can be difficult, especially for people who do not consume enzyme products or animal products in large quantities.

Vitamin K2 additives can be useful for people with a high risk of cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis or vitamin K2 deficiency. The recommended dosage of vitamin K2 varies depending on individual needs, but usually ranges from 45 to 180 mcg per day. It is preferable to choose additives containing vitamin K2 in the form of MK-7, since it has a longer half-life in the body.

It is important to consult a doctor before taking vitamin K2 additives, especially if you take anticoagulants (for example, warfarin), since vitamin K can influence blood coagulation.

4. B vitamins B: Complex effect on the heart

4.1. Vitamin B1 (thiamine): role in the energy metabolism of the heart

Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, plays a key role in energy metabolism, especially in the heart. It is necessary to convert carbohydrates into energy that the heart uses to contrace and maintain normal function.

*4.1.1. Связь дефицита тиамина с сердечной недостаточностью (бери-бери)*

Tiamin deficiency can lead to heart failure, a state known as Beri Berie. Beri-Bari are of two types: dry and humid. Wet Bari-Bury is characterized by heart failure, edema and shortness of breath. Dry Bari-Bury is characterized by damage to the nervous system.

Berry Berie heart failure develops due to the fact that the heart cannot effectively use energy due to thiamine deficiency. This leads to the expansion of the heart, a decrease in contractility and circulatory disorders.

Tiamine deficiency treatment using thiamine additives can improve the function of the heart and alleviate the symptoms of heart failure.

4.2. Vitamin B3 (niacin): influence on cholesterol and triglycerides

Vitamin B3, also known as niacin or nicotinic acid, has a significant effect on the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. It reduces the level of “poor” LDL cholesterol (low density lipoproteins) and triglycerides, and also increases the level of “good” LDP cholesterol (high density lipoproteins).

*4.2.1. Механизмы действия ниацина в снижении липидов*

Niacin reduces the level of LDL and triglycerides, inhibiting the production of very low density (LOPP) in the liver. LOPP is the predecessors of LDL. Niacin also increases the level of HDL, increasing the production of apolipoprotein AI (APOA-I), the main component of HDL.

*4.2.2. Побочные эффекты ниацина и стратегии их минимизации*

The most common side effect of niacin is redness of the skin, accompanied by itching and a feeling of heat. This effect is caused by the release of histamine. To minimize the redness of the skin, it is recommended to take niacin during meals and start with a low dose, gradually increasing it. Reception of aspirin or ibuprofen 30 minutes before the intake of niacin can also help reduce redness of the skin.

Other side effects of niacin include an increase in blood sugar, impaired liver function and stomach disorder. People with diabetes, liver diseases or peptic ulcer should consult a doctor before taking niacin.

4.3. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): participation in homocysteine metabolism

Vitamin B6, also known as Pyridoxine, plays an important role in the metabolism of homocysteine amino acids. Homocysteine is an intermediate product of methyonin metabolism.

*4.3.1. Связь повышенного уровня гомоцистеина с сердечно-сосудистыми заболеваниями*

The increased level of homocysteine in the blood (hyperhomocysteinemia) is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, thrombosis and stroke. Homocysteine damages the endothelium of blood vessels, contributes to the formation of blood clots and the oxidation of LDL.

*4.3.2. Роль витамина B6, B12 и фолиевой кислоты в снижении уровня гомоцистеина*

Vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folic acid are cofactors of enzymes involved in homocysteine metabolism. Vitamin B6 is involved in the transformation of homocysteine into cysteine. Vitamin B12 and folic acid are involved in the transformation of homocysteine into methionine.

Vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid additives can reduce the level of homocysteine in the blood and, possibly, reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, although the results of clinical studies are ambiguous.

4.4. Vitamin B9 (folic acid): prevention of nervous tube defects and heart health

Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid or fulat, is necessary for the formation of DNA and RNA, as well as for cell division. It is especially important for pregnant women to prevent defects in the nervous tube in the fetus.

*4.4.1. Механизм действия фолиевой кислоты в снижении уровня гомоцистеина*

Folic acid is involved in the transformation of homocysteine into methionine, thereby reducing the level of homocysteine in the blood.

*4.4.2. Влияние обогащения продуктов питания фолиевой кислотой на здоровье населения*

The enrichment of folic acid foods (for example, flour, bread, flakes) led to a significant decrease in the frequency of defects in the nervous tube in newborns. In addition, some studies have shown that enrichment of folic acid foods can also reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

4.5. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): the role in the formation of red blood cells and the functions of the nervous system

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is necessary for the formation of red blood cells (red blood cells) and the normal function of the nervous system. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia (lack of red blood cells) and neurological problems.

*4.5.1. Связь дефицита витамина B12 с повышенным уровнем гомоцистеина и риском сердечно-сосудистых заболеваний*

Vitamin B12 is involved in the transformation of homocysteine into methionine. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to an increase in the level of homocysteine in the blood and, possibly, to increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

4.6. Recommended doses of group B vitamins and sources in food

Recommended daily doses of B vitamins vary depending on age, gender and health. Good sources of group B vitamins in food include:

Vitamin B1 (thiamine): pork, whole grain products, legumes
Vitamin B3 (niacin): meat, fish, poultry, nuts, whole grain products
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxin): meat, fish, poultry, bananas, avocados
Vitamin B9 (folic acid): green leafy vegetables, legumes, orange juice, enriched products
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, eggs

People who do not consume a sufficient amount of group B vitamins from food may require additives.

4.7. B vitamins interaction and other drugs

B vitamins can interact with some drugs. For example, Niacin can interact with statins, increasing the risk of myopathy (muscle weakness and pain). Folic acid can interact with some anticonvulsants, reducing their effectiveness. It is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking B vitamins, especially if you take other drugs.

5. Vitamin C: antioxidant protection for the heart

5.1. The antioxidant properties of vitamin C and its role in protection against oxidative stress

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant,

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