In the journey toward well-being, a few aspects are as crucial as maintaining a healthy heart. Heart disease continues to be a leading cause of mortality in Canada. While certain risk factors such as age, genetics, and family history are beyond our control, there are lifestyle choices and natural supplements that can offer a helping hand.

Berberine: Nature’s cardiovascular support

Berberine, derived from various plants like barberry, goldenseal, and Oregon grape, has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries. Recent research has shed light on its potential benefits for heart health. Berberine has been found to help regulate blood sugar levels and support healthy blood lipid levels.¹

One of the key ways berberine aids cardiovascular health is by enhancing insulin sensitivity. Improved insulin function contributes to better blood sugar control, reducing the risk of diabetes, a significant risk factor for heart disease. Additionally, berberine has demonstrated its ability to lower LDL cholesterol levels while increasing HDL cholesterol, creating a more favorable lipid profile.

Berberine has been shown to activate the enzyme AMPK, often referred to as the “metabolic master switch” or “longevity enzyme.” Flipping the AMPK switch to “on” is one way that berberine improves energy metabolism, blood sugar, and lipid levels.²

Curcumin: The golden spice for heart wellness

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has long been celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Beyond its culinary uses, curcumin has gained recognition for its potential to support cardiovascular health.

Curcumin’s cardiovascular benefits extend to improving endothelial function, the lining of blood vessels. A healthy endothelium is vital for regulating blood pressure and preventing the development of arterial plaque. Curcumin supplementation improves vascular endothelial function in healthy middle-aged and older adults by reducing oxidative stress.³

Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties are a boon to heart health. Chronic inflammation has been linked to various cardiovascular issues, especially atherosclerosis.  By minimizing inflammation, curcumin acts as a protective shield for blood vessels.

Proactive prevention: A holistic approach to heart health

While berberine and curcumin offer valuable support, a holistic approach to heart health involves addressing various aspects of our lifestyles. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, adequate hydration, smoking cessation, and stress management are integral components of cardiovascular wellness.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare practitioner before incorporating any new supplements into your routine, as individual health needs can vary. However, the potential benefits of select natural supplements, combined with a heart-healthy lifestyle, offer a compelling strategy for supporting cardiovascular health and promoting overall well-being.

Embracing heart health is a journey, not a destination. By integrating nutritional supplements into a proactive lifestyle, we can fortify our hearts against the challenges of modern living.

References:
1. Zhao JV, Yeung WF, Chan YH, et al. Effect of berberine on cardiovascular disease risk factors: A mechanistic randomized controlled trial. Nutrients. 2021; 13(8):2550.
2. Utami AR, Maksum IP, Deawati Y. Berberine and its study as an antidiabetic compound. Biology (Basel). 2023; 12(7):973.
3. Santos-Parker JR, Strahler TR, Bassett CJ, et al. Curcumin supplementation improves vascular endothelial function in healthy middle-aged and older adults by increasing nitric oxide bioavailability and reducing oxidative stress. Aging (Albany NY). 2017; 9(1):187-208.
4. Chistiakov DA, Melnichenko AA, Grechko AV, et al. Potential of anti-inflammatory agents for treatment of atherosclerosis. Exp Mol Pathol. 2018; 104(2):114-24.

About the Author: Natural Factors

Natural Factors is a Canadian family-owned business operating for more than 50 years, providing a wide range of products exclusively to the health food industry. Factors Farms, located south of Armstrong, BC, is a certified-organic farmland that gives Natural Factors complete control over securing the best quality raw materials possible.