Arrhythmias: The Impact of Supplements on Heart Health

Acute arrhythmia

About two and a half years ago, I had mild hypoxia and ventricular premature beats.
I was taking 1.25 mg of Concor daily, initially two tablets, but after the premature beats disappeared over a year ago, I reduced it to one tablet daily.
I monitor my heart rate every day.
On January 30, my heart started to beat irregularly, sometimes skipping a beat, with a maximum of 7-8 beats before pausing.
I went to the emergency room at Beirong on January 31 and had a follow-up appointment on February 3.
The doctor prescribed 100 mg of Labetalol, two tablets, which I felt was improving my condition.
However, I was concerned that something I consumed might have affected my heart rhythm.
From January 14 to January 30, I took a new health supplement, UC2 + hops.
I researched hops and found that it can reduce inflammation but also has potential toxicity, with a recommended daily intake not exceeding 300 mg to 500 mg.
Since the health supplement I took was two tablets daily, that amounted to 500 mg.
Could this have impacted my existing arrhythmia? I immediately stopped using the health supplement and was hesitant to stop taking my medication, so I halved the Labetalol dosage (as I read in the leaflet that it was permissible).
After discontinuing the health supplement, my heart stopped having irregular beats, which was more noticeable than the medication alone.
I found a report from an American medical journal by Dr.
Kobi Sade mentioning that in rare cases, individuals with cardiovascular diseases may have allergic reactions to the spices, preservatives, or dyes found in beer, and there are reports of allergies to hops as well.
Additionally, there are reports from veterinary hospitals of dogs experiencing fever and increased heart rate after consuming hops, leading to death.
Could this be an allergic reaction for me, or is it unrelated? Since I no longer have premature beats, can I stop taking Labetalol and return to taking Concor 1.25 mg? Thank you very much, Dr.
He.

TK, 70~79 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/09

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, there are many things that people can be allergic to.
Are you allergic to hops? It's hard to say since you haven't consumed it.
Your arrhythmia has stabilized, and it's safer to follow up at the outpatient clinic.
A 24-hour Holter monitor will help us understand your current condition.
It's advisable to stop using Rhythmol and return to taking Concor for more peace of mind.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/02/09

More Info

Understanding arrhythmias and their management is crucial for maintaining heart health, especially for individuals with a history of cardiac issues such as premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and mild hypoxia. Your experience with heart rhythm irregularities, particularly after introducing a new supplement, raises important questions about the impact of dietary supplements on heart health.

Arrhythmias and Their Causes
Arrhythmias are irregular heartbeats that can manifest as a racing heart, skipped beats, or a feeling of the heart "fluttering." They can be caused by various factors, including stress, anxiety, electrolyte imbalances, medications, and dietary supplements. In your case, the introduction of the UC-II and hops supplement coincided with the resurgence of your arrhythmia symptoms.

The Role of Supplements
Supplements can have a profound effect on heart health. While some may offer benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties, others can lead to adverse effects. Hops, for instance, is known for its calming effects and potential to reduce inflammation, but it can also interact with medications and affect heart rhythm. The fact that you experienced a return of arrhythmias after starting the supplement suggests a possible link.
The concerns you mentioned regarding the toxicity of hops and the recommended daily intake are valid. It is essential to adhere to dosage guidelines, as exceeding them can lead to side effects, including potential cardiovascular issues. The sudden onset of arrhythmias after starting the supplement could indicate an intolerance or sensitivity to one of its components.

Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities
Your reference to allergic reactions to hops and the reported cases of dogs experiencing severe reactions to hops raises an important point. While it is rare, some individuals may have sensitivities or allergies to certain compounds found in supplements, which can lead to symptoms such as increased heart rate or arrhythmias. If you suspect that you may have an allergy, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Medication Management
Regarding your current medication regimen, it is essential to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations. The adjustment of your medication from KanKen (which I assume is a beta-blocker) to Lyrica (likely a typo for another medication) should be guided by your physician based on your symptoms and overall heart health. If you have not experienced PVCs since discontinuing the supplement, it may be worth discussing with your doctor the possibility of tapering off the beta-blocker, but this should be done cautiously and under medical supervision.

Recommendations
1. Consult Your Doctor: Before making any changes to your medication or supplement regimen, it is crucial to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your heart rate, any irregularities, and how you feel after taking supplements or medications. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in assessing your condition.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporate heart-healthy habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and stress management techniques. These can help improve overall heart health and potentially reduce the frequency of arrhythmias.

4. Avoid Unregulated Supplements: Be cautious with over-the-counter supplements, especially those that claim to have health benefits without substantial scientific backing. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.

5. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the potential effects of supplements and medications on heart health. Understanding how these substances interact with your body can empower you to make informed decisions.

In conclusion, while your experience with arrhythmias and the introduction of a new supplement is concerning, it is essential to approach the situation with a comprehensive understanding of your health. Collaborating with your healthcare provider will ensure that you receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.

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