Which Vitamins Are Best for Heart Health

Research suggests that vitamins like B6 and K2 might promote heart health. Not getting enough of other vitamins, like C and D, may increase your risk of heart disease.
Your body needs vitamins to function. Each of the 13 essential vitamins has a different function and influences your health differently. Some vitamins are more closely linked to heart health than others.

Let’s look at some of the key vitamins for heart health and how to ensure you’re getting the right amount to keep your heart functioning at its best.
Dietary sources vs. supplements
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t manage vitamin supplements as rigorously as other medications. Supplements are often not subject to the same strict research standards.

Some people believe vitamin supplements help them feel better, but most doctors suggest eating a variety of foods to naturally get these vitamins. Research often shows that supplements do not have the same benefits as finding a natural source.
Vitamin A and heart health
Most people think of vitamin A and its precursor (beta carotene) as most notable for benefiting eye and skin health. But some studies suggest that vitamin A can also protect the heart, although research is mixed.

A 2021 research review notes that vitamin A can help:
• reduce blood pressure
• reduce atherosclerosis (buildup of cholesterol in the arteries)
• protect the heart muscle
Vitamin B and heart health

Several of the eight B vitamins may benefit your heart, including:
• B6 (pyridoxine)
• B9 (folate)
• B12 (cobalamin)

Vitamin C and heart health
Vitamin C may protect the health of your blood vessels in several ways:
• As an antioxidant, it can protect cell membranes in blood vessel walls from potential damage by free radicals.
• It can stimulate the production of collagenTrusted Source to support blood vessel structure.
• It helps keep blood vessel walls smooth to facilitate healthy blood flow.
• It can stimulate nitrous oxide production, which can also improve blood flow.

Vitamin D and heart health
Also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” since you can get it from sun exposure, you can get vitamin D through fatty fish, eggs, and fortified milk, among other sources.

Vitamin K and heart health
Vitamin K exists in two natural forms: K1 and K2. Research links vitamin K2, in particular, to several heart health benefits, including:
• preventing the buildup of calcium in your arteries
• improving the elasticity of your blood vessels, allowing for easier blood flow
• reducing inflammation that can contribute to heart disease
Vitamin B3 (niacin)
Vitamin E