By Ms. Cindy Sim,
Senior Registered Nurse

Mothers are often seen as the heart of the family, juggling countless roles including personal chef, nurse, housekeeper, confidant and more; and that is just at home! Ironically, in the process of caring for everyone else, their own heart health often gets overlooked. This should not be the case. A healthy heart is not only crucial for their own wellbeing, but also for the wellbeing of those they love and care for.

Unfortunately, while heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for women globally, it has historically been under-recognised, underdiagnosed and undertreated in women due to several factors.

1. Differences in Symptoms
Instead of classic chest pain and/or shortness of breath, women may experience more subtle and varied symptoms, including: 

• Neck, jaw, shoulder, upper back or upper stomach pain
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in one or both arms
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sweating
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Unusual fatigue
• Heartburn or indigestion

2. Lack of Awareness
Heart disease is traditionally viewed as a ‘male concern’. As such, research and diagnostic tests are typically designed with the male physiology in mind, which could lead to delayed diagnoses, underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis when it comes to the fairer sex.

3. Differing Risk Factors
Women’s heart health can be influenced by unique hormonal and life-stage factors, such as:

• Menopause: During the menopause transition, women experience a drop in estrogen levels, hot flashes, depression, sleep issues, increased body fat, increased cholesterol levels and weakening blood vessels,  which can impact their cardiovascular health.
  
• Pregnancy Complications: Conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancy as well as preterm delivery, small-for-gestational-age delivery, pregnancy loss or placental abruption can increase the risk of developing heart disease later in life.
  
• Higher Stress and Mental Health Factors: Women are more likely to experience certain forms of stress and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, which can have a significant impact on heart health. Chronic stress, in particular, has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease in women.

The consequences of overlooking heart disease in women are far-reaching. As women live longer statistically, they face an increasing risk of heart disease in their later years. If heart disease is not properly recognised or managed early on, it can lead to more severe complications like heart attacks, strokes or heart failure, which could otherwise be prevented or mitigated.

Moreover, the fact that heart disease is often missed or under-emphasised in women can lead to a lack of preventative measures. With proper education and healthcare interventions, many women could reduce their risk factors, manage symptoms more effectively and live longer, healthier lives.

Women need to start prioritising their heart health. Taking a proactive approach to cardiovascular wellbeing can not only extend their lives but also improve their quality of life, enabling them to continue being a vital, loving and energetic presence for their families.

While a balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for a healthy heart, personalised supplements can play a crucial role in filling the nutritional gaps that might exist due to stress, poor diet or underlying health conditions.

Here are some nutrients that can be beneficial in supporting a woman’s heart health:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3 can help reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood circulation and reducing cholesterol levels. They are especially beneficial for maintaining a healthy heart rhythm and overall cardiovascular health.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): This powerful antioxidant helps improve energy production in the heart muscle, supporting better cardiovascular function. It is particularly important for individuals who may be dealing with fatigue or those on statin medications for cholesterol management.

Magnesium: Vital for maintaining normal heart rhythms, magnesium can also help reduce the risk of high blood pressure and promote better sleep, something many busy mothers struggle with.

Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Supplementing with vitamin D can help protect against heart disease. As a bonus, it also supports overall bone health.At Danai Medi-Wellness, our Exânutrix personal supplements can be tailored to address specific needs, such as supporting cholesterol levels, blood pressure or inflammation. They are crafted with only the essential nutrients, using the cleanest, most natural ingredients. Developed in international-standard laboratories, each formula is the result of close collaboration between our clients and our team of medical professionals, ensuring we address their unique needs and help them achieve their health goals. 

Consult with our experts to find the right supplements that provide the support you need to stay healthy, strong and ready to care for your loved ones.

Get to know me:
Ms. Cindy Sim is a registered nurse and healthcare educator with over 10 years of experience in lifestyle intervention. She is committed to empowering people to lead healthier lives.