Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) continue to remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the developed world, with coronary heart disease (CHD) being rated as the number one killer, and stroke following as a close third, in the United States. Over the years, research has established the link between dietary fats (lipids), lipid transport and metabolism in the body, atherosclerosis (the progressive narrowing of the arteries over time), and cardiovascular disease.
High levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol are particularly correlated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease, based on evidence from clinical studies and epidemiological analysis. Multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease commonly recognized in current medical literature include: age (over 45 for men and postmenopause for women), high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, Syndrome X (characterized by central type of obesity, elevated blood triglycerides, hypertension and abnormal glucose metabolism), genetic predisposition, serum HDL levels <40 mg/dL, serum lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a) levels above 20 mg/dL, serum homocysteine levels >10 nmol/L, the ratio of VLDL cholesterol/triglycerides >0.3, high concentrations of blood coagulation (clotting) factors, insulin resistance with hyperinsulinemia, midsection obesity, high levels of inflammatory compounds like C-reactive protein, high white blood and red blood cells counts, deficiency of antioxidant vitamins, cigarette smoking, alcohol abuse, infection with Chlamydia and gum disease causing Porphyromonas gingivalis.
A healthy lifestyle with appropriate diet and exercise regimens in combination with nutritional support with phytonutrients, mineral nutrients and vitamins is beneficial in lowering modifiable risk factors. Nutraceuticals that support healthy cardiac muscular functions, circulation and serum lipid levels, are beneficial to cardiovascular health.
These may be combined with nutrients that provide antioxidant support, blood sugar support, anti-inflammatory support, digestive support, and immune support, to present comprehensive formulations to support cardiovascular health.
Ingredients in such formulations could include Gugulipid® (Commiphora mukul extract), Policosanol, Inula racemosa extract, Terminalia arjuna extract, CoQ10, Ginger extract, Curcumin C3 Complex® and bioavailable sources of magnesium, vanadium and selenium. BioPerine® added to such formulations would help enhance the absorption and bioavailability of these nutrients.
Contact Sabinsa Corporation for details on natural ingredients and formulation guidelines for cardiovascular support.
