2928.Blood,Heart & Cholesterol 7) Congenital heart defects

CHDs are present at birth and can affect the structure of a baby's heart and the way it works. They can affect how blood flows through the heart and out to the rest of the body. CHDs can vary from mild (such as a small hole in the heart) to severe (such as missing or poorly formed parts of the heart).

Congenital heart disease is one or more problems with the heart's structure that exist since birth. Congenital means that you're born with the condition. Congenital heart disease in adults and children can change the way blood flows through the heart.

There are many different types of congenital heart defects. This article focuses on congenital heart disease in adults.

Some types of congenital heart disease may be mild. But complex defects may cause life-threatening complications. However, advances in diagnosis and treatment continue to improve survival for those with congenital heart disease.

# Symptoms

For some people, signs or symptoms of congenital heart disease aren't noticed until adulthood. Symptoms may return years after a congenital heart defect is treated.

Common congenital heart disease symptoms in adults include:

Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)

Blue skin, lips and fingernails (cyanosis)

Shortness of breath

Feeling tired very quickly with activity

Swelling of body tissue or organs (edema)

rregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). Faulty heart signaling causes the heart to beat too fast, too slowly or irregularly. In some people, severe arrhythmias may cause stroke or sudden cardiac death if not treated. Scar tissue in the heart from previous surgeries can contribute to this complication.

Heart infection (endocarditis). Bacteria or other germs can enter the bloodstream and move to the inner lining of the heart (endocardium). Untreated, this infection can damage or destroy the heart valves or cause a stroke. If you are at high risk of endocarditis, your care provider may recommend taking antibiotics one hour before dental cleanings. Regular dental checkups are important. Healthy gums and teeth reduce the risk that bacteria will enter the bloodstream.

Stroke. A congenital heart defect can allow a blood clot to pass through the heart and travel to the brain, where it reduces or blocks blood supply.

High blood pressure in the lung arteries (pulmonary hypertension). Some congenital heart defects send more blood to the lungs, causing pressure to build. This eventually causes the heart muscle to weaken and sometimes to fail.

Heart failure. Heart failure (congestive heart failure) means the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.

The recommended supplements for congenital heart defects are: CoQ10, Magnesium Glycinate, & Vitamin D3.

1. CoQ10

CoQ10 Ubiquinone has emerged as a potential therapeutic option for individuals with congenital heart defects. Congenital heart defects, which are structural abnormalities of the heart present at birth, affect millions of people worldwide. These defects can range from minor issues that require no treatment to severe conditions that may necessitate surgical intervention. CoQ10 Ubiquinone, a naturally occurring compound in the body, plays a vital role in cellular energy production and acts as an antioxidant. Research suggests that individuals with congenital heart defects may have lower levels of CoQ10 in their bodies, leading to impaired cardiac function. By supplementing with CoQ10 Ubiquinone, it is believed that these individuals may experience improvements in cardiac function and overall heart health. Studies have shown promising results, with some indicating that CoQ10 supplementation can improve exercise capacity, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance cardiac contractility in individuals with congenital heart defects.

Suggested Use: Take one (1) capsule twice a day as a dietary supplement. For best results, take 20-30 min before a meal or as directed by your healthcare professional.

2. Magnesium Glycinate

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. It helps regulate heart rhythm, blood pressure, and the overall health of the heart muscle. Magnesium Glycinate, specifically, is a form of magnesium that is highly bioavailable and easily absorbed by the body. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals with congenital heart defects who may have difficulty absorbing nutrients. Studies have shown that magnesium supplementation can improve heart function, reduce the risk of arrhythmias, and enhance overall cardiac health in individuals with congenital heart defects. Additionally, magnesium has been found to have a calming effect on the nervous system, alleviating stress and anxiety, which can be beneficial for individuals with heart conditions.

3. Vitamin D3

Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone health. Recent studies have suggested that Vitamin D3 may also have a role in cardiovascular health. Some evidence indicates that inadequate levels of Vitamin D3 during pregnancy could potentially contribute to the development of congenital heart defects in infants. Researchers have found that Vitamin D3 receptors are present in the fetal heart and play a role in cardiac development. Animal studies have shown that Vitamin D3 deficiency during pregnancy can lead to abnormal heart development in offspring. Moreover, epidemiological studies have found an association between low levels of Vitamin D3 in pregnant women and an increased risk of congenital heart defects in their babies. Although the exact mechanism by which Vitamin D3 affects cardiac development is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to its role in regulating gene expression and cell differentiation. Vitamin D3 also has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which may contribute to its potential protective effects on the developing heart.

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, adults take one (1) softgel capsule daily or as directed by a health care professional. Store in a cool, dry place and away from direct light.