Are there any dietary supplements that can “cleanse the blood”?

I have high blood pressure (average 150/90, average high heart rate 95) the results of the medical examination are arrhythmia, coronary atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia. Currently, I have been taking medication for 2 months (I smoke, drink alcohol, and am overweight). I want to add any functional foods to clean the blood because the root cause is still due to hyperlipidemia. Please advise, doctor, thank you very much!

Báo Đồng Nai•03/05/2025

(Mr. Huy, 41 years old, living in Long Binh ward)

Doctor replied:

Hello Huy!

With your condition, treatment of dyslipidemia (high blood fat) is very important to prevent dangerous cardiovascular complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke. In addition to maintaining medication treatment as prescribed by your doctor, making positive lifestyle changes (stop smoking, reduce alcohol, eat healthily, exercise regularly), you can consider using some additional support products.

According to information from the Ministry of Health , Omega-3 triglycerides rich in EPA are recognized as one of the effective supportive foods for people with lipid disorders and atherosclerosis. EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) is an Omega-3 fatty acid that has the following effects:

Significantly reduced blood triglycerides.
Stabilizes atherosclerotic plaques, reducing the risk of plaque rupture causing cardiovascular events.
Anti-inflammatory, improves vascular endothelial function, helps reduce the risk of arrhythmia.

Studies have shown that supplementing with EPA-rich Omega-3 triglycerides can effectively control high blood lipids and reduce mortality from cardiovascular disease. However, it is important to note that Omega-3 is not a substitute for statins or other major lipid-lowering drugs.

Before use, you should consult your doctor, especially if you are taking multiple cardiovascular medications, to avoid adverse interactions. Dosage and formulation (eg, natural, purified Omega-3 triglycerides) should also be selected appropriately.

Most importantly, along with supportive supplements, you need to focus on actively treating lipid disorders with medication; controlling blood pressure and stable heart rate; making comprehensive lifestyle changes, completely stopping smoking, minimizing alcohol and losing weight.

I wish you to persevere in treatment, improve your health soon and prevent dangerous cardiovascular complications!

Master - Doctor Quan Minh Tri,

Department of Thoracic and Vascular Medicine, Shing Mark University Hospital