Did you know that your immune system and your heart engage in an intimate relationship?
Researchers state: “Nowadays, the heart itself is seen as an important immune station.”
The Immune-Cardio Connection
More studies linking immune cells to cardiovascular structure and function are being published in peer-reviewed journals and collectively are creating a compelling case to add immune-support supplements for cardiovascular health. In fact, there are several medical textbooks devoted to discussing the research and practice of cardiovascular immunology. As such, we see extraordinary opportunities to formulate and educate the public about this association.
Research shows that there is “crosstalk” between the immune system and the heart that takes place through hormones, neurotransmitters, and cytokines.
It is known that the immune system has an impact on vascular endothelial function. And endothelial dysfunction is a cause of atherosclerosis; this disease is characterized by plaque accumulation in the arteries restricting blood flow to the heart. Prior research has linked innate immune molecules monocytes and macrophages, as well as neutrophils and lymphocytes to the onset and development of atherosclerosis.
There is another aspect of heart function – electrical charges. Study authors explain, “the electrical activity of the cardiac conduction tissue is also modulated by the immune system with a proven immunological component driving some rhythm and conduction disorders.”
And in true crosstalk fashion (back and forth), it has been shown that the heart can improve immune function through cardiokines, which are proteins secreted by the heart muscle.
More recently, it was discovered that cardiac fibroblasts – once believed to be non-immunologic cells – are what researchers have called “the immunomodulatory hub of the heart. When there is an injury to the heart (e.g., ischemic events), the cardiac fibroblasts communicate with immune cells to manage innate and adaptive immunity.
Vitamin C and the Heart
When considering supporting heart health, beyond direct-impact supplements such as CoQ10, and omega-3 EFAs, widen the scope to include immune support. Vitamin C, as the most well-known immune and antioxidant vitamin, is a viable supplement for supporting heart health.
Several studies have associated insufficient levels of vitamin C with higher incidence and risk of hypertension, heart failure and atherosclerosis. A pre-clinical study also showed that vitamin C increases nitric oxide synthesis in endothelial cells, thereby protecting blood vessels, reducing risk of atherosclerosis and vascular constriction.
These are the key benefits of vitamin C consumption to the cardiovascular system.
Why C-Fence?
Vitamin C, which is naturally water-soluble, is quickly absorbed and excreted through urine within a few hours and what remains is typically reduced by half every two hours. It was previously demonstrated that consuming doses beyond 200 go 400 mg daily leads to reduced absorption.
C-Fence is a proprietary, single-dose, 24-hour optimized Vitamin C that maintains consistent plasma concentrations for 24-hour sustained support, allowing improved benefits at a lower dose.
This is supported by a pharmacokinetic randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the pharmacokinetics of C-Fence in healthy human subjects.
Participants in the group supplemented with a once-daily 500mg dose of C-Fence, exhibited significantly higher Vitamin C plasma levels than those in the placebo group. Additionally, the vitamin C in the C-Fence group remained well above baseline for up to 24 hours after consumption.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the connection between immune health and heart function is undeniably significant, with ongoing research uncovering the essential interplay between the two systems. Immune support not only aids in maintaining a healthy immune response but also plays a critical role in cardiovascular health, particularly through the actions of immune cells on vascular function and cardiac rhythm. Vitamin C, with its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, stands out as a potent ally in supporting heart health. The unique formulation of C-Fence, which provides sustained vitamin C absorption over 24 hours, ensures optimal benefits at lower doses, making it an effective supplement for heart and immune system support. By incorporating immune-supportive nutrients like vitamin C into heart health regimens, individuals can enhance their cardiovascular well-being and promote long-term vitality.
