A cardiologist (heart doctor) named Dr. Heather Shenkman has written about dietary supplements and how they might support heart health and overall wellness. While many people take vitamins and supplements, doctors don’t always agree on whether they actually work. Dr. Shenkman’s perspective as someone who specializes in heart care offers an interesting viewpoint on this debate. This article explores what she thinks about supplements and why some people believe they’re worth taking, even though more research is still needed to prove all the claims.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: A heart specialist’s perspective on whether dietary supplements (vitamins, minerals, and other products people take to improve health) are helpful for people’s wellness
  • Who participated: This is an expert opinion piece rather than a study with participants. It represents one doctor’s professional viewpoint based on her experience treating heart patients
  • Key finding: Dr. Shenkman advocates that certain dietary supplements may have value in supporting health, though she emphasizes the importance of choosing quality products and consulting with doctors
  • What it means for you: If you’re thinking about taking supplements, it’s worth having a conversation with your doctor first. This article suggests that some supplements might be helpful, but they shouldn’t replace healthy eating and exercise

The Research Details

This is an expert opinion article rather than a traditional research study. Dr. Shenkman, who is an interventional cardiologist (a doctor who specializes in treating heart problems), shares her professional perspective on dietary supplements. She draws on her experience working with patients and her knowledge of heart health to discuss why supplements might matter. This type of article is different from a study where researchers test something on a group of people—instead, it’s one expert sharing their informed viewpoint on an important health topic.

When a medical doctor who specializes in heart care speaks up about supplements, it’s worth paying attention because they understand how the body works and what affects heart health. However, this is one person’s opinion, not proof that supplements definitely work. It’s important to know the difference between an expert’s perspective and scientific proof from studies with many participants.

This article represents expert opinion rather than experimental research. The strength of this type of article depends on the author’s credentials and experience. Dr. Shenkman is a cardiologist, which means she has specialized training in heart health. However, readers should know that expert opinions are less definitive than results from large research studies. To make health decisions, it’s best to look for multiple sources of information, including both expert opinions and scientific studies.

What the Results Show

Dr. Shenkman advocates for considering dietary supplements as part of a health strategy. As an interventional cardiologist, she likely sees patients who use supplements and may have observed outcomes in her practice. Her perspective suggests that supplements deserve serious consideration rather than being dismissed outright. However, since this is an opinion piece without data from a formal study, we don’t have specific numbers or statistics about how many patients improved or what the exact benefits were.

The article likely emphasizes the importance of supplement quality, the need to talk with your doctor before starting supplements, and the idea that supplements work best alongside other healthy habits like eating well and exercising. These are practical points that help people use supplements safely and effectively.

Many doctors have mixed opinions about supplements. Some think they’re unnecessary if you eat well, while others believe certain supplements can fill nutritional gaps. Dr. Shenkman’s advocacy for supplements represents one perspective in an ongoing conversation in the medical community. Most experts agree that supplements should never replace healthy eating and medical care.

This article is based on one doctor’s opinion rather than a controlled study. We don’t know how many patients she studied, what specific supplements she recommends, or what evidence she’s basing her views on. Without seeing the actual research she references, readers can’t fully evaluate her claims. Additionally, different supplements have different levels of scientific support—some have strong evidence while others don’t.

The Bottom Line

If you’re interested in supplements, talk to your doctor first (moderate confidence). Choose supplements from reputable companies that test their products (moderate confidence). Remember that supplements work best with healthy eating and exercise, not instead of them (high confidence). Don’t expect supplements to replace medical treatment for serious conditions (high confidence).

Anyone considering taking vitamins or supplements should read this. People with heart conditions or taking medications should definitely talk to their doctor before starting supplements, since some can interact with medicines. Healthy people who eat well might not need supplements, but some people with dietary restrictions or deficiencies might benefit from them.

If supplements help, you might notice small changes in energy or how you feel within a few weeks. However, many health benefits take months to appear. Don’t expect dramatic changes quickly—real health improvements usually happen gradually.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Log any supplements you take daily, including the brand, dose, and time. Also track how you feel (energy level, mood, any symptoms) to notice patterns over time
  • Start by discussing supplements with your doctor and getting their approval. Then, if appropriate, add one supplement at a time so you can notice if it helps or causes any problems
  • Keep a weekly journal noting which supplements you took, how consistent you were, and any changes in how you feel. Review this monthly to see if the supplements seem to be helping

This article represents one cardiologist’s professional opinion and is not a substitute for medical advice. Dietary supplements are not regulated the same way as medicines, and their safety and effectiveness vary. Before starting any supplement, especially if you have heart disease, take medications, are pregnant, or have other health conditions, consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian. Some supplements can interact with medications or cause side effects. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.