Cardiovascular health has always been a focal point for me, as it is part of my family history. I prefer to be proactive instead of reactive. The following are a few of my daily supplements, which I use to give myself a little peace of mind.
As we age, taking care of our hearts becomes more important than ever. Cardiovascular health plays a central role in how we age, not just in terms of longevity but also in quality of life, energy levels, and resilience. While a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and stress management form the foundation of heart health, natural ingredients can offer an extra layer of support.
This blog discusses a powerful, science-backed combination from my supplement program. Each ingredient targets a different aspect of cardiovascular health. When combined, these ingredients work together to support blood vessel health, cholesterol balance, healthy blood pressure, and cellular energy, the key areas that influence cardiovascular wellness as we age.
ABG10+®: The Power of Aged Black Garlic
Garlic has long been associated with heart health, but ABG10+® offers even more benefits. This patented extract is made from aged black garlic through a controlled fermentation process that enhances its antioxidant qualities and reduces the strong smell of raw garlic.
ABG10+ is packed with S-allyl cysteine (SAC), a natural compound great for heart health. Research shows that it can help keep blood pressure in a healthy range and improve the function of blood vessels. It also supports good cholesterol levels, helping your body maintain a healthy balance of fats in the blood. [i] [ii][iii]
In simple terms, ABG10+ helps keep blood vessels more relaxed and open, improving circulation and reducing strain on the heart.
Fenuflakes®: Heart-Healthy Fiber from Fenugreek
Fenuflakes® is a unique ingredient derived from defatted fenugreek seeds, which are rich in galactomannan fiber and plant compounds like saponins. While fenugreek is often linked to blood sugar support, its heart benefits are equally impressive, especially in terms of reducing triglycerides and controlling appetite.
The soluble fiber in Fenuflakes® creates a gel-like substance in the digestive tract that binds to cholesterol and fats, helping to eliminate them before absorption. This not only promotes healthy cholesterol levels but also supports better weight management, which is a key factor in heart health as we age. Think of Fenuflakes® as a gentle, natural fiber that nurtures your heart, digestive system, and metabolism all at once.
NSK-SD®: Nattokinase for Circulatory Flow
NSK-SD® is a highly purified, clinically studied form of nattokinase, an enzyme derived from fermented soybeans (natto). Unlike typical heart health supplements that focus on just one pathway, NSK-SD® is a purified nattokinase enzyme derived from the Japanese fermented food natto. Nattokinase is renowned for its natural ability to support healthy blood flow and dissolve fibrin. Unlike most enzymes, nattokinase survives the digestive tract and enters the bloodstream, where it helps support healthy blood clotting and circulation.
Studies have shown that NSK-SD supports healthy blood pressure, improves arterial elasticity, and helps maintain normal blood viscosity, making it a standout for anyone focused on healthy circulation as they get older.
AquaCelle® Omega-3: Essential Fatty Acid Heart Health Support
Omega-3s (EPA and DHA) are essential fatty acids with cardioprotective properties. AquaCelle® is a self-emulsifying delivery system that enhances the bioavailability of omega-3 oils by up to 6 times compared to standard fish oil.
Omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA, are important for heart health because they help lower triglycerides, support healthy blood pressure, and keep arteries flexible. AquaCelle® Omega-3 uses special technology to make these nutrients easier for your body to absorb, especially for older adults who might have trouble digesting fats. This means you can get more benefits from omega-3s every day without any fishy aftertaste, helping to protect your heart as you age.
Ubiquinol: The Energizer of Heart Cells
Ubiquinol is the active, bioavailable form of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a naturally occurring compound in the body that is essential for cellular energy production. The heart is one of the most energy-demanding organs, and Ubiquinol supports mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of cells, in producing ATP, the energy currency of life.
As we age, CoQ10 levels decline. This is especially true in people taking statins, which further deplete the body’s CoQ10 stores. Supplementing with Ubiquinol can restore these levels and improve energy availability in heart cells, potentially improving endurance, reducing fatigue, and supporting cardiac performance. Ubiquinol also acts as an antioxidant, protecting heart tissues from oxidative damage and preserving mitochondrial health. For older adults or anyone with cardiovascular concerns, this makes Ubiquinol a foundational nutrient for graceful aging.
Who Should Consider This Blend?
This natural combination may be especially helpful for:
- Adults over 40 who want to proactively support heart health
- Individuals with a family history of cardiovascular disease
- People experiencing low energy due to mitochondrial decline
- Anyone focused on healthy aging and longevity
Final Thoughts
Together, these ingredients target the entire spectrum of cardiovascular health, from circulation and cholesterol to inflammation and energy production. They don’t overlap or compete; instead, they work together to provide a holistic and natural way to support heart health well into your later years. Heart health involves staying active, vibrant, and resilient over time.
By combining ancient wisdom with modern science and clinical validation, these ingredients help bridge the gap between prevention and performance, making them a smart addition to any healthy aging routine.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before adding new supplements, especially if you’re taking medication for blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood clotting.
Additional References:
[i] Serrano JCE, Castro-Boqué E, García-Carrasco A, Morán-Valero MI, González-Hedström D, Bermúdez-López M, Valdivielso JM, Espinel AE, Portero-Otín M. Antihypertensive Effects of an Optimized Aged Garlic Extract in Subjects with Grade I Hypertension and Antihypertensive Drug Therapy: A Randomized, Triple-Blind Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2023 Aug 23;15(17):3691. doi: 10.3390/nu15173691. PMID: 37686723; PMCID: PMC10490347.
[ii] Valls RM, Companys J, Calderón-Pérez L, Salamanca P, Pla-Pagà L, Sandoval-Ramírez BA, Bueno A, Puzo J, Crescenti A, Bas JMD, Caimari A, Salamanca A, Espinel AE, Pedret A, Arola L, Solà R. Effects of an Optimized Aged Garlic Extract on Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Moderate Hypercholesterolemic Subjects: A Randomized, Crossover, Double-Blind, Sustainedand Controlled Study. Nutrients. 2022 Jan 18;14(3):405. doi: 10.3390/nu14030405. PMID: 35276764; PMCID: PMC8838962.
[iii] Ahmed T, Wang CK. Black Garlic and Its Bioactive Compounds on Human Health Diseases: A Review. Molecules. 2021 Aug 19;26(16):5028. doi: 10.3390/molecules26165028. PMID: 34443625; PMCID: PMC8401630.