Based on recent several recent studies and some updates presented at the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology and European Heart conferences, Dr. Todd A. Dorfman recommends the following supplements in order to best prevent heart disease, strokes, and overall mortality.
Fish oil:
Many recent pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical studies were recently presented at the international cardiology conferences regarding fish oil. A large meta-analysis which combines all of the available studies in the world on fish oil shows that fish oil was beneficial in preventing heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death. A recent industry study with 4 grams daily of a prescription fish oil (Vascepa) called “REDUCE-IT”, showed a 30% decrease in heart attacks, a 30% decrease in strokes and a 25% decrease in all-cause mortality. Another Vascepa study called “EVAPORATE” actually showed a decrease in the amount of plaque in patients taking 4 grams of fish oil daily.
K2 MK-7
Additional recent cardiovascular preventative studies showed a renewed interest in Vitamin K-2 in the form of MK-7. The studies were done with serial CT calcium scores as I perform on most of my concierge, executive health patients. The supplement in a dose of 90mcg daily showed significant benefit in stabilizing existing plaque which theoretically makes blood clot and rupture less likely (the main cause of a heart attack). Anyone who has a calcium score on their heart scan other than 0 should consider K-2 MK-7.
For more information regarding supplements and healthy living, please visit our office for a consultation.
