Angina is quite common and oftentimes is the result of increased blood and plasma viscosity (the blood and plasma are too thick and they have difficulty traveling quickly enough through small arteries like those of the heart). (Acta Med. Scand. 89;224:109-114.)
Nutritionally, there are several things that have been shown to help with angina pain that you’ll definitely want to discuss with your doctor. It could save your life.
Vitamin E has been shown to inhibit blood clotting and decrease viscosity. (J. Clin. Invest. 76;57:732-737.) Keep in mind, however, that initially high dosages may cause an increase in blood pressure. Beginning with small daily dosages (100 IU) and very gradually increasing the amount, is always recommended.
Bromelain has also been shown to be a great help in inhibiting platelets from sticking together and slowing blood flow. Some European studies have even shown that it breaks down arteriosclerotic plaques. (Acta Med. Empirica 78;5.) (Publisher’s note: Economical sources for bromelain are given in Vol. 2, No. 20.)
L-carnitine helps the heart better utilize fatty acids for energy. This in turn, allows it to operate more efficiently when its circulation is impaired.
Omega-3 fatty acids (the fish oils) decrease blood viscosity as has been widely reported.
Another nutrient that I have seen accomplish remarkable results in stopping angina is Coenzyme Q10. A study in Japan showed that the number of angina attacks were cut in half when patients took 150 mg of CoQ10 a day for a period of only four weeks. (American J. Cardiology 85;56:247-251.)
One item that I would consider essential in angina cases is magnesium. Most angina patients have a lower pH. Magnesium, which is considered an alkaline ash mineral, helps to raise the pH; increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood; inhibit platelet clotting; prevent certain types of arrhythmias; and most importantly, prevent the spasm of the coronary arteries. As a result, it can relieve angina and often prevent a sudden heart attack. (Science 80;208:198.) Generally, 500 to 800 mg daily is the recommended dosage. Keep in mind that alcohol, caffeine, increased calcium, fats and sugar will all deplete magnesium.
In closing, I would like to mention a combination of nutrients that has been used successfully by thousands to eliminate angina pain. Dr. Jacobus Rinse, a chemist, developed the simple, yet potent, formula after experiencing angina pains at the age of 51. It seems at the time (1951) he was left to his own resources, since his doctors were neither able to explain the reason for the attacks (he wasn’t overweight, didn’t smoke, etc.), nor provide him with any regimen to prevent future attacks.
Using his background in chemistry, he began an extensive study into the problem and, as a result, he developed the following formula which, in addition to a few other supplements, he took everyday.
1 T. of soy lecithin granules (5 g)
1 T. of debittered brewer’s yeast (raw and untoasted)
1 T. of raw wheat germ
1 T. of dark brown sugar, blackstrap molasses, or raw honey (This can be eliminated if desired. Instead, fruit juice or soup can be used to moisten the mixture.)
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