Supplement
Use
Notes
Calcium
1,000–1,200 mg/day.
May help reduce systolic blood pressure in people with hypertension; may lower cholesterol.
Take supplemental calcium with food to lower risk of kidney stones.
Folate (folic acid)
400 mcg/day.
May provide significant protection against cardiovascular disease by lowering homocysteine levels in the blood.
Take in conjunction with vitamins B6 and B12.
Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil)
For high triglycerides, 5 grams/day of combined EPA and DHA. For high blood pressure, 3 grams/day of combined EPA and DHA.
Lowers triglyceride levels and blood pressure; helps prevent cardiac arrhythmia.
May thin blood, so use caution if taking warfarin (Coumadin). May affect glycemic levels; if you have diabetes, consult a health care provider before taking.
Vitamin B12
2.4 mcg/day.
May work in conjunction with folate to lower homocysteine levels.
Generally well-tolerated.
Vitamin B6
1.3–1.5 mg/day for women; 1.3–1.7 mg/day for men.
May work in conjunction with folate to lower homocysteine levels.
Elderly people tend to be at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency.
Vitamin E
15 mg/day.
Antioxidant qualities may help protect against heart disease.
Stop high-dose supplementation at least one month before any surgical procedure.
—K.R.
Note: Larger doses may be necessary for disease management and prevention. Check with your health care practitioner for individualized recommendations.
Sources: Jaime S. Ruud, RD, research analyst in the department of nutritional science and dietetics at the University of Nebraska and author of Nutrition and the Female Athlete (CRC, 1996); PDR for Nutritional Supplements (Thomson PDR, 2001).
