Lee A. Surkin, MD is unique among cardiologists. In addition to his cardiology training at Yale University, Dr. Surkin also has a Master of Science in Human Nutrition from Columbia University. He brings an integrative approach to his practice, including a strong emphasis on standard medical care, exercise, and Nutrition. This article discusses why diet alone does not provide key nutrients a patient needs for a healthy heart.

It is well known that a healthy diet is a critical part of everyone's plan for a healthy heart. Many of the foods that we eat and the liquids we drink can have a very beneficial impact on our heart health. The literature is full of references to scientific studies that show the positive influence of various nutrients. For example, in a 17-year study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, participants with the highest blood levels of Omega-3 fatty acids were more than 80% less likely to die from heart disease.

Another popular nutrient that has shown to have positive impact on heart health is Green Tea. In an 11-year observational study from Japan, published in the September 2006 Journal of the American Medical Association, both men and women who consumed higher amounts of Green Tea showed improved life expectancy. The positive effects of Green Tea come from an ingredient known as EGCG, which as an antioxidant is 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times better than vitamin E.

Yet another nutrient widely studied for its heart health benefits is resveratrol, an antioxidant found in red wine. While researchers can't say how much resveratrol is needed to be beneficial, they tell us that drinking red wine in moderation (one or two five-ounce glasses per day) may offer protective effects.

Omega-3 fatty acids, green tea, and resveratrol are just three examples of well-documented nutrients that contribute to a healthier heart. However, "A Healthy Diet May Not Be Enough" No matter how complete, t here are far too many variables that keep your diet from being a sufficient source of these nutrients. Different fish have different amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids. It takes far too many cups of Green Tea to get the therapeutic levels needed to gain its full benefits. And, t here is wide variation in the amount of resveratrol in different red wines.

I work with my patients to provide them with the supplements they need for their particular needs. supplements provide the proper amount of nutrients to maximize prevention for individuals with heart disease, and even those who want to aggressively prevent heart disease from occurring. I also help the patients pick and choose from the many nutrients available to fit their health profile. Combine a healthy intake of nutrients from diet and supplements, along with standard medical care and Exercise and you have a great formula for a healthy heart.

As part of an ongoing series I will focus on cardiac prevention by presenting risk factors, certain treatments as they apply to risk factors and review the role of supplements in integrative cardiology.