Posted by Raw Revelations on Jun 18th 2019
A Natural Approach to Cardiovascular Health
Summer is the time to stoke the fires of heart health and focus on treatment and prevention of heart disease. Because the fire element and summer season go hand-in-hand, this month is an instinctive time to start focusing on optimal cardiovascular health. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women! Let’s delve into some natural ways to support your heart function and prevent disease.
Magnesium
As the fourth most abundant mineral in our bodies, magnesium is involved in an array of key biological processes. It plays an important role in the synthesis of DNA, expression of RNA, cell communication, glucose regulation, and blood pressure control, to name a few. It has been studied extensively for its role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and its associated risk factors. These risk factors include type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and hypertension.
High blood pressure and hypertension are well-established risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown a magnesium deficiency to be linked with an increased risk of various cardio-metabolic conditions, including hypertension and suboptimal blood pressure. Magnesium serves to improve endothelial function, which lines the interior surface of blood vessels ( R).
Our topical magnesium gel and spray optimize magnesium’s bioavailability. Magnesium begins to absorb instantaneously and your body absorbs most of it within 20 minutes. Liberal use is the key, keep it in your bathroom and use it all over your body after bathing. It's impossible to overdose when applying topically.
Curcumin is the active component of turmeric with an incredible benefit to the health of our body systems. It remains the most researched medicinal herb, due to its array of health-promoting activities. Curcumin is a polyphenol, which targets multiple signaling molecules to support overall health. It is a strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplement. It has been shown to help with metabolic syndrome and oxidative stress, both precursors of heart disease. Additionally, studies have shown that curcumin has the ability to modulate the expression of genes and the activity of enzymes involved in lipoprotein metabolism. This means they can positively affect plasma triglycerides and cholesterol ( R). Essentially, Turmeric works by breaking up arterial plaque while at the same time protecting cells from further damage and promoting repair.
Our formulation of Liquid Turmeric is infused with bee pollen, propolis, royal jelly, raw honey, ginger, and black pepper to ensure optimal bioavailability.
The role of B vitamins in cardiovascular health is still somewhat under-researched. Folic acid and other B vitamins have been shown to reduce homocysteine levels, suggesting that supplementation could decrease cardiovascular disease risk ( R). It has been established that a deficiency of B vitamins is associated with oxidative stress, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (R). B-vitamins are essential to the function of heart cells.
Our Cultured B Vitamin Complex offers an instant feeling of well being. It is a completely natural source of B vitamins. Ours is a robust blend of folic acid, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B1, choline, and biotin. These vitamins work synergistically to fight stress and support heart health.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have been studied for the beneficial effects on heart health. They have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and overall mortality. The American Heart Association recommends omega-3 supplementation for patients with coronary heart disease. Supplementation is so commonly accepted because our dietary ratios have been thrown out of balance due to the consumption of vegetable oils and grain fed animal foods.
Our Super 3 comes from an algae oil source, so don’t worry about contaminants and depleting fish populations. It is combined with potent antioxidants astaxanthin and sea buckthorn which provide additional cardiovascular protection.
Beets are a powerhouse food, with an incredible array of health benefits. We’ve made it easy to incorporate the healing power of organic, USA grown beets into your diet with our beet juice powder. The beneficial effects of beets on the cardiovascular system is largely due to its high nitrate content. Natural nitrates from beets are a precursor to nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide is what expands our blood vessels for optimal blood flow. Beets also contain important phytochemical compounds that contribute to both heart and overall health. The vibrant red color comes from the presence of strong phytonutrients called betalains. Betalains have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Beetroot has been shown to have beneficial effects on hypertension, atherosclerosis, and type 2 diabetes. Control of these conditions plays an important role in optimal heart health. You can also find similar benefits in our Perform pre-workout energy drink mix and TMG.
This mineral-rich compound has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of hypertension and the optimization of cardiac health for over 5000 years. It is derived from the Himalayan mountains where it produced from microbial digested ancient plant matter which has been compressed and uplifted by geologic activity. While not many scientific studies have been performed to support the cardiovascular effects of shilajit, initial studies have shown promise. With over 70 minerals in ionic form, amino acids, humic acid, and fulvic acid, shilajit is a rejuvenating herb and adaptogen. Just a pinch in water by itself gives a noticeable boost of energy and clarity that is part in due to the circulation boosting properties of this amazing material.
Reishi mushroom is a powerful adaptogen and immune system modulator. It is also regarded as a heart opening spirit tonic in Chinese Medicine where it is revered by many as the #1 herb. Studies have shown reishi’s ability to lower plasma levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL cholesterol ( R).
Vitamin D has been well-researched for its effect on a myriad of human health conditions, including cardiovascular health. Several studies have linked low Vitamin D levels to increased risks of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and diabetes. Data suggests a protective effect for vitamin D and cardiovascular disease by mechanisms that are still being researched. Some of the results of vitamin D supplementation have been inhibition of inflammation, regulation of glucose metabolism, inhibition of vascular calcification, and regulation of blood pressure. Vitamin K2 regulates where calcium goes and keeps it out of where it doesn’t belong. Arterial calcification is a big risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Our D3 & K2 blend is derived from plant sources, unlike most sources on the market that are derived from synthetic and/or animal products. Maintaining optimal levels of both D3 and K2 is essential for heart health.
Eucommia bark is known for its ability to promote structural integrity, stability, and flexibility. Think of it like a vegan collagen. It is the most popular herb for martial artists and pregnant women in China, where it is used for structural support. This structural support also includes the strengthening of vascular tissue in the heart and vessels. Eucommia bark is rich in bioactive compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids that fight inflammation and oxidation while providing protection for the cardiovascular system ( R). It's a very gentle herb, suitable for virtually anyone, and can also help to restore energy and support kidney function.
Additional Mentions
There are some many more herbs and nutrients worth mentioning when it comes to Cardiovascular health so we are just going to touch briefly on a few more below.
Perform- This is our pre-workout formula which is full of circulation boosting and cardioprotective botanicals some of which are mentioned above. It can be taken daily as general support with or without exercise.
Iodine- Deficiency in this essential mineral can contribute to cardiovascular risk factors such as high triglycerides and/or cholesterol. Iodine deficiency is incredibly common.
Astaxanthin- Shown in studies to slow down LDL oxidation in as little as 14 days. The key with astaxanthin is understanding it is the most powerful fat-soluble antioxidant. Most antioxidants are water soluble and can’t offer much protection to our vital organs.
Rice Bran Solubles- Among the highest food source of Tocotrienols. Tocotrienols are the right type of vitamin E which are amazing tissue healing fat-soluble nutrients. Tocopherols are what is commonly found in vitamins and research has proven this form is actually harmful to cardiovascular health in particular. We recommend staying away from this! Another reason we do not recommend multi-vitamins, they usually all contain Vitamin E as Tocopherol.
Bag of Tricks- Our multi-nutrient blend rich in tonic herbs like Reishi and Euccomia and nutrients like Tocotrienols mentioned in this article.
Diet
For initial healing of the cardiovascular system, focus on a plant-based diet. A number of studies have supported the healing effects of plant-based diets and their beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Diets rich in high-quality plant foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds have been shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and its associated risk factors. Nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, and leafy greens all contribute to overall heart health ( R). If/when you reintroduce animal products, choose meat, eggs, and dairy that has been pasture raised and is free of added hormones or antibiotics.