Ingredient Strategy: 5 Popular Supplements for Heart Health

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States, and from an economic perspective, heart conditions have become the most significant driver of healthcare spending nationwide. According to Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates, heart disease accounts for almost a quarter of a trillion dollars of health care budgets annually. 

The impacts of this epidemic have permeated the consumer psyche, with consumers now not only aware of preventative actions they can take to support their heart health but also actively seeking out specific supplements and ingredients. 

To that end, several supplements are trending among consumers for heart health: CoQ10, resveratrol, vitamin D, stanols, and magnesium. Here, we’ll examine the specifics of each of these supplements and how they contribute to heart health. We’ll also highlight a few popular consumer packaged goods with these functional ingredients.

5 Popular Supplements for Heart Health

1. CoQ10 

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant crucial for energy production at the cellular level. It is the primary component of electron transportation in mitochondria, driving the production of the energy-carrying molecule ATP. CoQ10 benefits for the heart include maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and supporting overall cardiovascular function. 

CoQ10-infused water and energy drinks are gaining traction among health-conscious consumers looking to boost heart health naturally. These products are often used in combination with prescriptions. You can already find CoQ10 products in energy drinks like Reign, Monster, and AG1. 

CoQ10 benefits for the heart include maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and supporting overall cardiovascular function.

2. Resveratrol 

Resveratrol is a polyphenol found in red wine, grapes, and certain berries. It’s known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to cardiovascular health by protecting the lining of blood vessels, reducing LDL cholesterol levels, and preventing blood clots. Resveratrol also has demonstrated anti-carcinogenic effects.

While naturally occurring in red grape juice, resveratrol is widely sold as a supplement and drink powder.

3. Vitamin D 

Vitamin D is essential for maintaining healthy bones and immune function, but it also plays a significant role in heart health. It helps regulate blood pressure, reduces inflammation, and supports proper heart function. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. 

Vitamin D comes in two main forms, D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol), both of which are absorbed in the small intestine. The market offers many existing vitamin D-fortified products, such as juices and milk alternatives like Fairlife. 

4. Stanols 

Plant stanols are naturally occurring substances found in small amounts in many plant-based foods. They are known for lowering cholesterol levels by blocking cholesterol absorption in the intestines. 

The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) recommends 2 grams of stanols daily to help protect against cardiovascular disease. This amount can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol, a major risk factor for heart disease. 

Stanol-fortified functional beverages already abound. From juices to health shots to energy drinks, there is already a plethora of plant-stanol-infused drinks on the market. A few of the more widely available brands include Lifeway Kefir, Siggi, and Guru.

5. Magnesium 

Magnesium plays a key role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including those related to heart health. Magnesium helps regulate blood pressure, support muscle and nerve function, and maintain a regular heartbeat. 

Magnesium deficiency can lead to various cardiovascular issues, including hypertension and arrhythmia. The absence of magnesium is prevalent in those with type 2 diabetes—about 48% of people with type 2 diabetes have low levels of magnesium in their blood. 

Functional beverages enriched with magnesium, such as certain mineral waters and sports drinks, provide a convenient solution for ensuring adequate magnesium intake, promoting optimal heart function and overall well-being.

Heart Health as an Ingredient Strategy

These 5 popular supplements for heart health—CoQ10, resveratrol, vitamin D, stanols, and magnesium—each offer unique benefits that can contribute to overall heart health. 

CoQ10 benefits the heart, supporting energy production and cardiovascular function. Resveratrol provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, while vitamin D regulates blood pressure and reduces inflammation. Stanols help lower cholesterol levels, and magnesium ensures proper heart rhythm and function.

The future outlook for heart-healthy beverages and other consumer-oriented products is promising. In 2022, the global market for functional beverages reached $175 billion in sales and is expected to almost double by the end of the decade.  As research continues to explore supplementation for heart health and new advances are made in formulation, we can expect a growing variety of functional beverages tailored to support cardiovascular health.

Given the growth opportunities in this sector, the market is ripe for developing more effective, palatable, and bioavailable products. Contact Spokes Sciences to learn more about your options.