From the Guidelines
Bradycardia can be induced by various supplements, including omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, melatonin, valerian root, hawthorn, motherwort, potassium, and CBD oil, which can affect heart rate by influencing ion channels, the autonomic nervous system, or interacting with heart medications, as noted in studies such as 1 and 1.
Key Supplements to Watch
- Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) in high doses exceeding 3 grams daily
- Magnesium supplements, particularly when doses exceed 350 mg daily
- Melatonin, especially at doses above 5 mg
- Herbal supplements like valerian root, hawthorn, and motherwort
- Potassium supplements, particularly in people with kidney issues or those taking certain medications
- CBD oil, which has been reported to cause bradycardia in some individuals
Mechanism of Action
These supplements can cause bradycardia by:
- Affecting ion channels in cardiac cells
- Influencing the autonomic nervous system
- Interacting with medications like beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, as discussed in 1 and 1
Precautions
People with pre-existing heart conditions, the elderly, and those taking heart medications should be particularly cautious with these supplements and consult healthcare providers before use, due to the potential risks outlined in 1 and 1.
Symptoms to Watch
Symptoms of bradycardia to watch for include:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- In severe cases, fainting It is essential to prioritize caution and consult healthcare providers before using any supplements, especially for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or those taking medications, as emphasized in 1 and 1.
From the Research
Supplements and Bradycardia
There is limited research on supplements that induce bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate). However, some studies suggest that certain supplements may have an effect on heart rate:
- Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (N-3 PUFA) or fish oil supplementation may reduce mortality and sudden death, but its effect on heart rate is not explicitly stated 2
- Coenzyme Q10, used in treatment of heart failure, may have beneficial effects on arrhythmias, but its effect on heart rate is not explicitly stated 2
- Magnesium supplementation may be beneficial in the treatment of torsades de pointes and in some studies after cardiac surgery, but its effect on heart rate is not explicitly stated 2, 3
- Potassium supplementation may have a modest blood pressure-lowering effect in normotensive persons with low dietary intake, but its effect on heart rate is not explicitly stated 4, 5
- Calcium and magnesium supplements do not appear to have a significant effect on blood pressure or heart rate 4, 5
Herbal Supplements
Some herbal supplements may cause adverse cardiovascular effects, including changes in heart rate:
- Herbal stimulants, such as bitter orange, ephedra, caffeine, guarana, maté, kola, areca, lobelia, and khat, may cause cardiovascular effects, including changes in heart rate 6
- Other herbal ingredients may also have adverse cardiovascular effects, but the specific effects on heart rate are not explicitly stated 6