Heart health

Question
Hi,
I am a 35yr old female,and it has recently been suggested that I have a heart condition caused by a genetic fault. Left ventricular non compaction to be precise.I take a combination of a beta blocker and an ace inhibitor in small doses as the condition is mild. I am however very fit and swim 40 lengths 2 x a week and run twice weekly. I wish to maintain my fitness but wondered what you thought about including co enzyme q 10 in my diet. I currently have a very low fat diet and wondered about omega 3 inclusion? What are your thoughts, please?
Thanks
Emma

Answer
Hello Emma!

    Thank you for your nutrition question.  CoEnzyme Q10 and Omega 3 fatty acids are both beneficial to heart health.  
    A growing number of nutrition oriented doctors say that supplements of Co Q10 are absolutely essential for people with heart failure. Co Q10 was said to have several patients who used it to live longer, more active lives, has saved some people who would otherwise have died waiting for donor hearts and has even allowed some to take their names off the transplant list.  ore than fifty major articles have been published in reputable medical journals worldwide in the last ten years on the use of coQ-10 for heart disease, primarily congestive heart failure. Studies at the University of Texas at Austin showed that 75 percent of heart patients have severe deficiencies of CoQ10 in heart tissue compared with healthy individuals. They have also found that taking coenzyme Q-10 significantly benefited three-fourths of a group of elderly patients with congestive heart failure.
   Extensive research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and help prevent certain chronic diseases such as heart disease and arthritis. he Mediterranean diet consists of a healthier balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and many studies have shown that people who follow this diet are less likely to develop heart disease. The Mediterranean diet does not include much meat (which is high in omega-6 fatty acids) and emphasizes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids including whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, olive oil, garlic, as well as moderate wine consumption.

 For more answers to your nutrition questions check out "Ask the Nutritionists: Answers to your Nutrition Questions" by George Rapitis. Available online or at your favorite bookstore.  

Happy Holidays
George Rapitis. Bsc. Nutritionist
www.juiceblend.com  

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