Heart & vessels

The heart and blood vessels together form the cardiovascular system. In addition to the heart acting as a pump, the vessels are elastic structures that supply the organs with blood. In contrast to the vein wall, the artery wall is relatively thick and muscular because it has to withstand the high pressure generated by the heart.

With age, the structure of the vessel walls changes. They become thicker and lose elasticity. In addition to age-related changes, other factors such as lack of exercise, obesity and diabetes lead to vascular calcification (atherosclerosis). Many cardiovascular diseases are directly or indirectly related to diet. 

Heart and vessels benefit greatly from a healthy lifestyle! Sport and exercise as well as a healthy, varied diet are important cornerstones. Various micronutrients also contribute to normal heart function and blood pressure and help to keep the heart and blood vessels healthy even in old age.

Potassium and magnesium, for example, are important minerals for the excitability and contraction of heart muscle cells. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for normal blood pressure and help maintain normal blood cholesterol levels. Vitamin C is important for the formation of collagen for the normal functioning of blood vessels.