If you choose to start with just the basic multi-vitamin, then you may want to consider adding some of the following, based on your family history, or any health issues you may experience. See the next section for why each of the following nutrient combinations are required to maintain heart and overall health.

• Vita-D3

• CoQHeart

• CarotoMax

• B Complex

• OsteoMatrix

• OmegaGuard

• Vita-E Complex

• Sustained Release Vita C

• Vivix or Kosher Vivix or Vivix Gummies

ANTIOXIDANTS

The Linus Pauling Institute is conducting an ongoing series of studies demonstrating how antioxidants help block the formation of atherosclerosis (which causes hardening of the arteries). Vitamin C, vitamin E, Selenium, the bioflavonoids [28], the carotenoids [29], and Coenzyme Q10 [30] all possess powerful antioxidant properties, and appear to protect the inner lining of arteries (the intima, or endothelial layer) from “activation” by free radicals, thus preventing chronic inflammation and atherosclerotic development. [31, 32]

New research also suggests that one of the carotenoids (lutein) lowers C-reactive protein levels, thus preventing oxidation of cholesterol and other blood proteins, while also reducing the inflammatory markers most associated with the onset of vascular disease. [33]

B VITAMINS

There has been active scientific debate as to whether elevated homocysteine levels are merely associated with (risk marker) or is a causative factor (risk factor) in heart and vascular disease. A new study by clinical biochemists tested 900 patients and clearly demonstrated that homocysteine levels are the most significant biochemical risk factor for developing vascular disease. Their analysis revealed that homocysteine conformed to Hill's criteria for causation, and that elevated homocysteine levels were treatable through the administration of B-vitamins, even when the cause was genetic. [34] Another new study suggests that lowering homocysteine levels might also prevent or delay the cognitive decline of Alzheimer's disease. [35]

These 2 studies confirm earlier trials I have reviewed, [36] regarding the protective effects of B vitamins against developing neurodegenerative diseases, including the demyelinating disorders (Multiple Sclerosis), movement and cerebellar disorders (Huntington's and Parkinson's), and the dementias, which includes Alzheimer's Disease.

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