1. Fish oil without antioxidants
Fish oil is often touted as one of the best supplements for weight loss and heart health. And, in fact, it can indeed be great for your health. However, Iafelice says that you should always ensure your fish oil choice contains antioxidants, or else it could be potentially dangerous.
"While fish oil is very beneficial for cardiovascular health, it can be harmful," he says. Fish oil that isn't preserved with antioxidants like Vitamin C, E, or astanxanthin pose a risk, as "Fish oil is extremely susceptible to rancidity and the production of toxic byproducts." Yikes!
For this reason, Iafelice says, you should "always be sure that your fish oil has antioxidants in it to protect it from rancidity."
2. Ephedra
Ephedra is undoubtedly a dangerous supplement, which is why the FDA banned it back in 2004. This stimulant, often used for weight loss, could result in heart attack, stroke, seizure, and even death. However, just because Ephedra is banned, that doesn't mean you shouldn't exercise caution. "Despite this ban, some products may still have ephedra or its derivatives, like ma-huang in traditional Chinese medicine," Dr. Sambyal says.
This supplement can pose a significant risk to your heart. "This stimulant can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and metabolism," Dr. Sambyal warns. Ephedra becomes especially dangerous when combined with certain medications. "Ephedra can interact with blood pressure medications and other drugs such as caffeine and decongestants," he tells us.
We recommend that everyone avoids this supplement, but those with hypertension and other existing heart issues are at especially high risk.
3. Calcium without magnesium
It's always important to get enough calcium in your diet, especially if you want strong, healthy bones. However, Iafelice warns that you could put your heart at risk if you choose to take a calcium supplement that doesn't contain magnesium. According to him, an imbalance of these nutrients could lead to heart health issues.
"Calcium and magnesium need to be in balance," he says. "Many people take calcium supplements that do not contain magnesium, this can result in a relative deficiency of magnesium, especially if the person is also eating a lot of dairy foods."
A magnesium deficiency could result in issues like difficulty sleeping and losing weight; Iafelice notes that magnesium is also "essential for keeping the heart pumping with a normal heart rhythm" and "a lack of magnesium can lead to arrhythmias or Afib."
Ultimately, a 1:1 ratio of calcium and magnesium is important to look out for in your calcium supplement to avoid cardiovascular issues.
4. Bitter orange
Bitter orange is sometimes applauded for numerous benefits, including weight loss, heart burn treatment, and nasal decongestion. However, it contains a stimulant called synephrine that could be pose danger to your heart, especially if you struggle with high blood pressure, Dr. Sambyal warns.
Synephrine, he notes, could raise your blood pressure and heart rate. Additionally, "It can also interact with blood pressure medications and other drugs, such as antidepressants and antihistamines."
"Bitter orange can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and arrhythmia in people with high blood pressure," he says. "Therefore, people with high blood pressure should avoid bitter oranges and products that contain it." Noted!
5. Licorice Root
Licorice root is often hailed for its purported benefits in addressing digestive ailments and improving prostate health. However, Thayer warns, "Licorice root can be dangerous as it can also cause high blood pressure and decrease potassium levels which can lead to life threatening arrhythmias." Despite its potential benefits, the risks associated with licorice root underscore the importance of exercising caution when considering its use. Consider a daily probiotic for gut health, instead.
6. St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is known its potential to alleviate depression and anxiety symptoms. However, Nurse Thayer cautions that this supplement may lead to dangerous spikes in blood pressure. While individuals may seek relief from depression symptoms, they should also be mindful of the potential cardiovascular risks associated with St. John's Wort. Good to know! There are many alternative ways to manage stress that won't put your body at risk.