—Many people turn to supplements as a convenient way to maintain heart health, but recent research indicates that certain vitamins and supplements could actually pose risks to cardiovascular health if taken without medical supervision.
Health experts are advising individuals to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any supplement regimen, particularly those with existing heart conditions or at high risk for cardiovascular disease, according to a report from Eating Well on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
Nutritionists are cautioning against the employ of six specific supplements that may have adverse effects when taken in high doses or without proper guidance.
- Vitamin E
Although often touted for its antioxidant properties and potential heart health benefits, high-dose vitamin E supplementation may increase health risks.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Bess Berger, RDN, explained that while vitamin E was once believed to protect the heart, newer studies suggest that high doses of vitamin E in supplement form can elevate the risk of heart failure and hemorrhagic stroke.
Violeta Morris, M.S., RDN, echoed this sentiment, noting that recommendations against vitamin E supplements are based on two clinical trials that found an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke with daily intakes of 111 to 200 IU.
As a result of these findings, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against using vitamin E supplements for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Experts suggest obtaining vitamin E through natural food sources like vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables.
- Calcium
Calcium supplements similarly warrant attention. Although known for their role in bone health, certain calcium supplements may increase the risk of heart disease, particularly in healthy postmenopausal women.
Morris cited a study analyzing 13 randomized controlled trials, which showed that calcium supplements were associated with a 15% increased risk of cardiovascular disease in this population.
“Calcium can contribute to arterial calcification [the buildup of hard calcium deposits in artery walls], increasing the risk of heart disease,” added Berger.
However, calcium supplementation isn’t universally discouraged. It remains necessary for preventing health issues like osteoporosis, especially for individuals who struggle to obtain sufficient calcium from their diet, such as through dairy products, dark leafy greens, fortified juices, or non-dairy milks. Consulting with a healthcare provider before taking calcium supplements is still advised.
- Energy or Weight Loss Supplements
Berger pointed out that many energy and weight loss supplements contain stimulants like caffeine or compounds similar to ephedra.
Moderate caffeine intake from coffee or tea is generally considered safe for heart health, and some research even suggests moderate consumption may lower the risk of heart disease.
However, caffeine in supplement form can have a different impact due to its higher concentration.
“This can put stress on your cardiovascular system, raise blood pressure and heart rate, and potentially increase your risk of heart disease,” Berger said.
- Beta Carotene
Beta carotene, an antioxidant found in yellow, orange, and green vegetables, as well as tomatoes, is beneficial when obtained through food, but supplementation may carry risks.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) reviewed scientific evidence and concluded that beta carotene supplements could be harmful, particularly for smokers.
Research indicated that consuming 20 to 30 milligrams of beta carotene supplements daily was linked to an increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease in smokers.
“The potential danger of high-dose beta carotene supplementation may be due to interactions with compounds in cigarette smoke,” Morris explained.
- Licorice Root
Licorice root supplements are often promoted for various health benefits, including aiding digestion, relieving coughs, and managing menopause symptoms, but supporting scientific evidence is limited.
Regarding heart health, some studies suggest that licorice supplements may have negative effects.
“Licorice supplements, or supplements containing licorice as a secondary ingredient, should be avoided for heart health because they contain glycyrrhizin, an enzyme that can cause the body to retain sodium and raise blood pressure,” said Michelle Routhenstein, M.S., RD, CDCES, CDN.
This can be particularly dangerous for individuals already diagnosed with high blood pressure.
- Red Yeast Rice
Routhenstein also cautioned against red yeast rice supplements, frequently marketed as a cholesterol-lowering agent.
“The active ingredient in red yeast rice that helps lower cholesterol is called monacolin K, which is associated with a high risk of muscle, kidney, and liver damage,” she said.
Monacolin K shares a similar structure with the cholesterol-lowering drug lovastatin. Some red yeast rice supplements have even been found to illegally contain added lovastatin without clear labeling.
some manufacturers do not disclose the amount of monacolin K in their products, potentially posing health risks if taken without medical supervision.
Experts emphasize that maintaining heart health doesn’t necessarily require supplements. Safer alternatives include regular physical activity to strengthen the heart muscle and improve blood flow, which can also facilitate lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and the risk of heart attack.
Managing stress is also crucial for heart health, as stress can elevate blood pressure and trigger inflammation. Activities like exercise, socializing, adequate sleep, meditation, or pursuing hobbies can help manage stress. Prioritizing sleep quality is also key, as insufficient sleep can increase the risk of high blood pressure and worsen heart health.
Experts also recommend increasing consumption of heart-healthy foods. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Consuming whole grains, lean proteins, and non-tropical vegetable oils can support long-term heart health.
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