Integrative Medicine for Cardiovascular Disease and Prevention

Med Clin North Am. 2017 Sep;101(5):895-923. doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2017.04.007.

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is traditionally treated through medications and lifestyle modifications, yet adherence to these treatments is often poor. The use of complementary therapies is increasing, and it is vital for physicians to be aware of the risks and benefits of these options. This article summarizes the current evidence base on integrative therapies for the prevention and treatment of CVD, including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Where applicable, recommendations are included for therapies that may be used as an adjunct to traditional medical care to improve cardiovascular health and quality of life.

Keywords: Alternative therapies; Cardiovascular disease; Hypertension; Integrative medicine; Nutrition; Prevention; Stress; Supplements.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / prevention & control
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / therapy
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / physiopathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / therapy*
  • Complementary Therapies / methods*
  • Coronary Artery Disease / prevention & control
  • Coronary Artery Disease / therapy
  • Diet
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Endothelium, Vascular / physiopathology
  • Exercise
  • Health Behavior*
  • Heart Failure / prevention & control
  • Heart Failure / therapy
  • Humans
  • Hyperlipidemias / prevention & control
  • Hyperlipidemias / therapy
  • Hypertension / prevention & control
  • Hypertension / therapy
  • Integrative Medicine / methods*
  • Life Style
  • Phytotherapy / methods
  • Quality of Life
  • Risk Factors
  • Sodium, Dietary / administration & dosage
  • Sodium, Dietary / adverse effects

Substances

  • Sodium, Dietary