Can Vitamins Help to Slow Down Your Heart Rate?

In general, a low resting heart rate is linked to better overall physical health and fitness. There are many ways to slow a high heart rate, including lifestyle changes and weight loss. There is some suggestion that certain vitamins and minerals may play a part in lowering your heart rate, although further research is required regarding the effect of individual vitamins on heart function and heart rate.

A typical adult heart rate, when resting, is in the range of 60 to 100 beats per minute. In general, a lower resting heart rate implies a higher level of physical fitness -- trained athletes may have resting heart rates as low as 40 beats per minute. A consistently high resting heart rate may indicate you are at risk for poor heart health. You should consult your doctor if your resting heart rate is typically higher than 100 beats per minute.

Under medical supervision, calcium and magnesium supplements may be used to slow your heart rate. Daily doses typically range from 100 mg to 350 mg of magnesium and 200 mg to 700 mg of calcium. The calcium supplement may function to counteract any possible laxative effect of the magnesium. The ratio of calcium to magnesium must be carefully balanced in order to ensure proper functioning of your heart.

The role of vitamins in affecting your heart health and heart rate is not yet fully understood. A study published in the January 2010 issue of the "American Journal of Cardiology" indicates that vitamin D levels may affect your heart rate, although the authors of this study indicate that further research is necessary before conclusions can be drawn. According to Mayo Clinic cardiologist Martha Grogan, vitamin D may improve the function of your blood vessels, which could lower your heart rate. Additionally, Grogan indicates that vitamins C and E may improve your heart health in general, and lower your risk of heart disease. It is possible that as your heart health improves, your heart rate would decrease.

Vitamins alone cannot slow your heart rate. You must also control other factors affecting your heart health, including your weight and diet, level of physical activity, smoking, cholesterol levels and concomitant health issues such as diabetes. If you are concerned about your heart rate, contact your doctor for individualized medical advice concerning your overall health before you take any vitamins or supplements intended to slow your heart rate.