Knowledge of dietary supplements and their use among cardiovascular disease patients

Abstract

As the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) rises and life expectancy increases, the importance of physical activity, a balanced diet, and the elimination of harmful habits is becoming increasingly important. The use of dietary supplements to improve well-being and health is also gaining popularity. The aim of this study was to assess the use and knowledge of dietary supplements among patients with cardiovascular disease using an anonymous survey method. 162 people with cardiovascular disease who use food supplements participated in the study. The study divided the respondents into 2 groups: 1^st group consisted of people with cardiovascular disease under 10 years of illness, while 2^nd group consisted of people with cardiovascular disease over 10 years of illness. The study showed that people with cardiovascular disease most often consume fish oil and vitamin D, and least often take iron supplements. Those with more than 10 years of illness were statistically significantly more likely to take B vitamins and more likely to be aware of the potential effects of fish oil on pulse regulation. Cardiovascular disease patients with less than 10 years of illness are statistically significantly more likely to be aware of the possible cardiovascular effects of vitamin D. Before taking dietary supplements about one third of the respondents read the instructions for use of the supplements and least often consult a nurse. Cardiovascular disease patients do not have sufficient knowledge of the possible cardiovascular effects of dietary supplements, even though all respondents in the study take them.