Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in numerous body functions, including heart rhythm regulation, muscle contraction, and blood pressure control. Despite its importance, many people don’t get enough magnesium from their diet, which can silently affect cardiovascular health. This deficiency may go unnoticed but can increase the risk of heart complications over time.
While supplements can help fill nutritional gaps, they aren’t a cure-all solution. Maintaining heart health requires a combination of proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and healthy lifestyle habits. Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, a heart transplant cardiologist, takes a strategic approach to supplementation, focusing only on those with solid scientific backing to complement his daily routine and optimize his cardiovascular wellness.
Why does a cardiologist recommend taking magnesium?
Magnesium supports key processes like blood pressure regulation, muscle and nerve function, and overall cardiovascular health. About 15% of Americans are deficient in magnesium, which may contribute to heart-related problems.
Dr. Yaranov emphasizes the importance of monitoring magnesium levels through blood tests because too much magnesium can cause irregular heart rhythms, especially in patients with heart disease. He prefers magnesium glycinate, which contains glycine, an amino acid that promotes better sleep and is gentler on the stomach than other forms.
Other recommendations to improve cardiovascular health
Besides magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids play a significant role in reducing blood clot risks and lowering harmful fats in the bloodstream. These nutrients, commonly found in fatty fish such as salmon and walnuts, are among the most researched supplements for heart protection. Dr. Yaranov admits he relies on omega-3 supplements to fill gaps in his diet, as he doesn’t eat enough fresh fish regularly.
Vitamin D is another essential nutrient linked to a lower chance of heart attacks in older adults. Since many people spend most of their time indoors, including Yaranov, supplementing with vitamin D helps maintain immune function and supports calcium absorption, both important for overall health.
Dr. Yaranov emphasizes that supplements are a complement to—not a substitute for—healthy habits like balanced nutrition and consistent exercise. He personally works out five days a week, knowing that physical activity, combined with proper supplementation, builds stronger cardiovascular resilience.
Taking supplements carefully and under medical supervision is crucial, especially for individuals with existing heart conditions. Regular check-ups and blood work ensure nutrient levels stay within safe ranges, preventing potential side effects such as irregular heartbeats.
Incorporating these supplements can be a practical step for those looking to enhance heart health naturally. Yet, the foundation remains a heart-healthy lifestyle: proper diet, exercise, stress management, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking.
Magnesium, omega-3, and vitamin D each contribute uniquely to heart function. Their combined effect, supported by scientific research and clinical experience, offers promising benefits for cardiovascular wellbeing.
Those interested in supplementing should consider consulting with a healthcare professional to tailor a plan suited to their individual health needs and to avoid excessive intake or interactions.
Ultimately, managing heart health is a balance of lifestyle choices and informed supplementation, as Dr. Yaranov’s approach demonstrates. This integrated method could help many reduce their risk of heart disease and improve quality of life over time.
