Heart

The heart is a very important and complicated organ. The heart is the central “pump” that provides the body with oxygenated blood. The red blood cells in the blood supply oxygen to all the tissues. The deoxygenated blood flows back to the heart. From there it is pumped to the lungs where it becomes oxygenated again.  After passing the heart, the blood is pumped through the body again to deliver oxygen to all tissues and organs. When there is something wrong with the “pump”, the organs will not receive enough oxygen and this may cause a life-threatening situation.

Unfortunately, our pets can also suffer from heart problems. Sometimes the heart contracts insufficiently and therefore lacks the strength to pump the blood through the body. Sometimes arrhythmias occur that influence the heart’s function in a negative way. Very common are deformations of the cardiac valves. The valves in the heart do not close correctly anymore, causing the valves to “leak” blood when the heart contracts. Valve problems like these also negatively influence the heart’s functioning. Frequently occurring complications during heart conditions are enlargement of the heart, a build-up of fluid in the lungs (oedema of the lungs) and high blood pressure.

A pet with a heart condition should be carefully examined and treated by a veterinarian.  A complete recovery is not always possible. By administering medications the veterinarian will try to make the heart contract as effectively as possible, relax the blood vessels and lower the blood pressure. Food supplements can sometimes help to support the heart’s function.  Cardio-Strength contains a few natural ingredients (vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids, minerals and trace elements) that can be used in patients with heart problems:

* Carnitine
The amino acid carnitine stimulates the uptake of oxygen and fatty acids by the heart muscle thus supplying the heart with extra energy to contract. Carnitine also relaxes blood vessels; this causes the blood pressure to drop.

* Taurine
Taurine is very important for the proper use of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Taurine promotes a regular heartbeat, spares the loss of potassium, is an important antioxidant and supports the immune system. In a few dog breeds scientists have shown a correlation between Taurine deficiency and the heart condition DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy).

* DMG (DiMethylGlycine)
DMG allows the heart muscle to utilize oxygen more efficiently. DMG is an antioxidant, keeps the cholesterol level within normal range and supports the blood pressure.

* Co-Enzyme Q10
Co-Enzyme Q10 provides an increase  in cellular energy as well as improved cardiovascular functioning.

* Vitamin E
This antioxidant promotes normal blood clotting, strengthens capillary walls and reduces blood pressure.

* Magnesium
This mineral is very important for heart contraction, helps to regulate the blood pressure and the circulation in the blood vessels.