Many supplements are marketed for heart health, but the scientific evidence behind them varies widely. A review by researchers Sofia Bronzato and Alessandro Durante examined the relationship between dietary supplements and cardiovascular disease, offering a clear look at what the research actually shows. Their findings help separate expectation from evidence—especially for older adults focused on long-term heart health.

What the researchers wanted to understand

The review evaluated a wide range of supplements commonly used for cardiovascular support, including:

• omega‑3 fatty acids
• antioxidant vitamins
• coenzyme Q10
• magnesium
• plant sterols
• herbal extracts

The goal was to determine whether these supplements show consistent evidence for supporting heart health or reducing cardiovascular risk.

What the study found

The findings were mixed—some supplements show potential, while others offer little evidence of benefit.

• Omega‑3 fatty acids show the most consistent support. Research suggests they may help maintain healthy triglyceride levels and support overall cardiovascular function.
• Antioxidant vitamins (C, E, beta‑carotene) show limited benefit. Large studies do not consistently link these supplements with reduced cardiovascular risk.
• CoQ10 may support heart function in specific contexts. Evidence is promising but not definitive for general cardiovascular prevention.
• Magnesium supports healthy blood pressure. Research suggests modest benefits, especially in people with low dietary intake.
• Plant sterols may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. They appear most effective when combined with a heart‑healthy diet.
• Herbal supplements show inconsistent results. Quality varies widely, and evidence is often limited.

Overall, the review emphasizes that supplements can play a supportive role, but they are not a replacement for heart‑healthy lifestyle habits.

Why this matters for aging

Cardiovascular disease becomes more common with age, and many older adults turn to supplements hoping to protect their heart. This review reinforces a key message: supplements may help fill nutritional gaps, but long‑term heart health is shaped more by daily habits than by isolated nutrients.

• diet quality
• physical activity
• sleep and stress management
• maintaining a healthy weight

These lifestyle factors consistently show stronger associations with cardiovascular health than supplements alone.

What this means for your daily life

If you use supplements for heart health, this review doesn’t suggest you need to stop. Instead, it highlights the importance of focusing on food‑first habits that support cardiovascular aging.

• eat more leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables
• choose berries and colorful fruits for natural antioxidants
• include nuts, seeds, and legumes regularly
• use olive oil as your primary cooking fat
• add fatty fish like salmon or sardines weekly

These patterns consistently appear in research on heart‑healthy aging.

Reference

The study is available here: Dietary Supplements and Cardiovascular Diseases (Bronzato & Durante)