{"id":24745,"date":"2026-08-08T23:12:02","date_gmt":"2026-08-08T21:12:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ngdcare.nl\/product\/uncategorized\/heart-support-bundle\/"},"modified":"2026-09-02T11:09:19","modified_gmt":"2026-09-02T09:09:19","slug":"heart-support-bundle","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/www.ngdcare.nl\/en\/product\/trajectories\/heart-support-bundle\/","title":{"rendered":"Heart Support Trajectory"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Your animal has received a heart diagnosis: mitral valve degeneration, dilating cardiomyopathy, heart failure or a heart rhythm disorder.<\/strong> Or the vet has found a heart murmur during a routine check-up. The NGD Care Heart Support Bundle has been developed as an addition to your veterinarian’s treatment. We explain what is really going on in the heart of your animal, what the medication does and what we recommend to protect the myocardium and slow down its progression. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

What your vet told you, and what else is going on<\/h2>\n

Your veterinarian has diagnosed a heart defect and may prescribe medication: pimobendan, furosemide, benazepril or spironolactone. This medication is necessary for symptomatic heart failure and prolongs life. But in an average consultation, there is no room to explain why heart disease is so much more than a pumping problem, and how the biological environment around the heart makes the difference between slow and fast progression. <\/p>\n

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What your vet may not have explained<\/p>\n

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\u2192<\/span>The heart has the highest energy requirement per gram of tissue of any organ. CoQ10, essential for the mitochondrial electron transport chain, is structurally reduced in heart failure. This accelerates the progression. <\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span>RAAS activation<\/a> and sympathetic overactivation are compensatory mechanisms that overload the heart over time. Omega-3 and magnesium dampen this neuro-hormonal overactivation. <\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span>The gut-heart axis<\/a>: TMAO<\/a> produced by gut bacteria from choline and carnitine damages the endothelium and increases cardiovascular risk. A disrupted microbiome directly increases TMAO production. <\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span>Taurine and L-carnitine are essential for cardiac muscle function. Deficiency, particularly on grain-free diets, is associated with dilating cardiomyopathy in dogs. <\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span>Myocardial fibrosis via TGF-\u03b21 is the common endpoint of cardiac remodeling. In early stages, this can be influenced via curcumin and omega-3. <\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span>Furosemide and other diuretics increase magnesium and B vitamin secretion. Deficiencies in these cofactors amplify arrhythmias and myocardial dysfunction. <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Nutrition for heart disease: what we recommend<\/h2>\n

In heart disease, a low-sodium diet is recommended to limit fluid retention. This is justified in symptomatic heart failure. But the nutritional quality itself rarely gets attention. <\/p>\n

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Our nutritional advice for heart disease<\/p>\n

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No ultra-processed dry food.<\/strong> Ultra-processed foods increase the systemic LPS load that enhances cardiac inflammation via TLR4. Processed fats in dry food also increase TMAO production via gut bacterial conversion of phosphorilated choline. <\/div>\n
Fresh protein sources for taurine and carnitine.<\/strong> Fresh meat, especially heart, liver, and fish, is the primary dietary source for taurine and L-carnitine. Grain-free dry foods that do not provide these amino acids from fresh protein sources are associated with DCM in dogs. Variation in protein source is essential. Taurine and L-carnitine as targeted supplementation will soon be available through the NGD Care Vet Pro Line. <\/div>\n
Moderate sodium content.<\/strong> In asymptomatic heart failure (ACVIM stage B1-B2), severe sodium restriction is not indicated and reduces appetite. In case of symptomatic heart failure (stage C-D) moderately low in sodium in consultation with the veterinarian. <\/div>\n
20% ground vegetables.<\/strong> Fermentable fibers for microbiome repair and reduction of TMAO production via better sacharolytic fermentation. Potassium-rich vegetables such as spinach and broccoli support electrolyte balance when using diuretics. <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Four mechanisms that drive heart disease<\/h2>\n
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1. Mitochondrial Exhaustion<\/div>\n

The heart is the most energy-consuming organ. In heart failure, CoQ10 status decreases and mitochondrial efficiency deteriorates, which lowers contractility and accelerates progression. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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2. Neuro-hormonal overactivation<\/div>\n

RAAS activation and sympathetic overactivation compensate for reduced cardiac flow but increase afterload and promote myocardial fibrosis<\/a> and hypertrophy in the long term.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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3. Myocardial fibrosis<\/div>\n

TGF-\u03b21 activates cardiac fibroblasts that produce collagen in the myocardium. Fibrosis lowers the compliancy of the heart and worsens diastolic dysfunction. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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4. Gut-heart axis<\/div>\n

TMAO from dysbiosis damages the vascular endothelium and promotes atherosclerosis. LPS via leaky gut enhances myocardial inflammation via TLR4 activation. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Our advice: phased support in addition to your vet’s medication<\/h2>\n

The phasing follows the mechanistic priorities: first stabilize gut and systemic inflammation, then protect the heart directly via CoQ10 and anti-fibrosis, then mitochondrial and neuro-hormonal maintenance. Always inform the treating veterinarian about supplementation in case of active medication use. <\/p>\n

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1<\/div>\n
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Phase 1: Stabilizing the gut-heart axis and reducing inflammatory pressure, weeks 1 to 6<\/div>\n
Reduce LPS Load on the Myocardium<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

LPS through a disrupted intestinal barrier activates TLR4 on cardiomyocytes and macrophages in the myocardium, which induces NF-kB activation and potentiates myocardial inflammation and fibrosis. Biofilm Balance<\/strong> targets the underlying dysbiosis, Prebiotics<\/strong> reduce the LPS-producing dysbiosis and increase TMAO-lowering sacharolytic bacteria. Liposomal Curcumin<\/strong> inhibits NF-kB and TGF-\u03b21 in cardiomyocytes. Vitamin C<\/strong> is a cofactor for collagen-III synthesis in the vessel wall and protects the vascular endothelium.<\/p>\n

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We advise in phase 1<\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span>Prebiotics<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>Biofilm Balance<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>Liposomal Vitamin C<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>Liposomal Curcumin<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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2<\/div>\n
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Phase 2: Myocardial Protection and Energy Recovery, Weeks 6 to 14<\/div>\n
Restoring CoQ10, Inhibiting Fibrosis, Dampening RAAS Overactivation<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Liposomal CoQ10<\/strong> is the core of phase 2. The heart consumes more energy per gram than any other organ and is completely dependent on adequate CoQ10 availability for the electron transport chain. In heart failure and when using statins, CoQ10 is structurally reduced. Omega Blend<\/strong> modulates prostaglandin balance, lowers heart rate variability, and inhibits TGF-\u03b21-mediated fibrosis in the myocardium. Relax Support<\/strong> provides magnesium as a cofactor for sodium pump, calcium channel regulation, and more than 300 enzymatic reactions, many of which are directly relevant to cardiac electrophysiology. Magnesium excretion is increased with furosemide use. PEA Complex<\/strong> stabilizes mast cells and supports the nervous system, relevant in the low-grade systemic inflammation that accompanies heart disease. <\/p>\n

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We advise in phase 2<\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span>Liposomal CoQ10<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>Omega Blend<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>Relax Support<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>PEA Complex<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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3<\/div>\n
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Stage 3: Mitochondrial Maintenance and Long-Term Heart Protection<\/div>\n
NAD\u207a repair, oxidative protection and vitamin B supplementation<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Longevity Support<\/strong> restores through NAD\u207a the sirtuin activity that regulates mitochondrial biogenesis in cardiomyocytes. SIRT3 is specifically active in cardiomyocyte mitochondria and protects against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. Resveratrol activates SIRT1 with additional anti-fibrotic action. Liposomal Vitamin B-Complex<\/strong> supplements the B vitamins that are excreted at an accelerated rate during furosemide and other diuretic use. B1 (thiamine) is specifically essential for cardiac energy production. Thiamine deficiency is associated with cardiomyopathy. Liposomal CoQ10<\/strong> and Omega Blend<\/strong> will continue in this phase, supplemented with Liposomal Glutathione<\/strong> for broader antioxidant protection. <\/p>\n

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We advise in phase 3<\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span>Longevity Support<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>Liposomal Vitamin B-Complex<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>Liposomal CoQ10<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>Omega Blend<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span>Liposomal Glutathione<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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What can you expect and when?<\/h2>\n

Heart disease is chronic and progressive. The bundle focuses on slowing down progression and improving quality of life. Steer on the ultrasound cardiography parameters that the veterinarian measures, especially left atrium\/aortic ratio and left ventricular end-diastolic volume. <\/p>\n

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Weeks 1-6<\/div>\n

Intestine stabilized. Systemic LPS burden on the myocardium reduced. Less shortness of breath during exertion may be noticeable. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Week 6-14<\/div>\n

CoQ10 restored. Better cardiac energy production. More load capacity and less fatigue visible. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Week 14-22<\/div>\n

Mitochondrial recovery consolidated. More stable heart function at ultrasound check. Better quality of life. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Month 6+<\/div>\n

Long-term maintenance. Progression slowed. Medication needs may be more stable in consultation with the vet. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Always inform the treating veterinarian about supplementation with heart medication. CoQ10 may affect cardiac sensitivity when used in pimobendan. Magnesium may be relevant when combined with certain antiarrhythmic drugs. Always adjust in consultation. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Specific points of attention for each condition<\/h2>\n
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Mitral valve degeneration (MVD)<\/div>\n

Most common heart disease in dogs. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, and Dachshund are risk-breeds. Stage B1-B2: full beam insertion for progression inhibition. Stage C-D: supplemental to pimobendan and furosemide. <\/p>\n

+<\/span> Fully deploy all phases<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)<\/div>\n

Doberman, Great Dane, Boxer. Taurine and L-carnitine deficiency as a diet-related cause in a grain-free diet. Fresh meat nutrition including heart and liver as a direct source of taurine is the first step. Taurine and L-carnitine will soon be available through the NGD Care Vet Pro Line as a targeted heart formula. <\/p>\n

!<\/span> Taurine and L-carnitine: coming soon via Vet Pro Line<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Cat (HCM)<\/div>\n

Most common heart disease in cats. Maine Coon and Ragdoll genetically predisposed. Focus on fibrosis inhibition via curcumin, oxidative protection via CoQ10 and glutathione. Tachycardia management via omega-3 and magnesium. <\/p>\n

+<\/span> Phase 2 and 3 priority<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Cardiac arrhythmias<\/div>\n

Magnesium is the most underestimated antiarrhythmic intervention. It stabilizes the electrical potential of cardiomyocytes via calcium channel blocker. In the case of furosemide, magnesium supplementation is almost always indicated. Omega-3 lowers ventricular arrhythmia risk via membrane stabilization. <\/p>\n

!<\/span> Always consult with a veterinarian in case of antiarrhythmic drugs<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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For which situations do we recommend this bundle?<\/p>\n

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\u2713<\/span>Mitral Valve Degeneration (MVD) in Dog Stage B1-D<\/div>\n
\u2713<\/span>Dilating Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in Dog<\/div>\n
\u2713<\/span>Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) in Cat<\/div>\n
\u2713<\/span>Cardiac arrhythmias in addition to medication<\/div>\n
\u2713<\/span>Heart murmur without symptoms: progression inhibition<\/div>\n
\u2713<\/span>Supplementation with diuretic use for cofactor losses<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)<\/h2>\n
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Is CoQ10 safe to combine with pimobendan or other heart medications?<\/h3>\n

CoQ10, omega-3 and magnesium are widely used in addition to regular heart medication. Always discuss supplementation with the treating veterinarian, especially when used in combination with pimobendan, diuretics or antiarrhythmics, so that dosages remain aligned. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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How long does it take to see results?<\/h3>\n

The first effects, such as less shortness of breath and more energy, are often noticeable from weeks 6 to 14, when the CoQ10 status is restored. Structural improvement of heart function on ultrasound control usually takes 4 to 6 months. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Can this bundle replace my vet’s heart medication?<\/h3>\n

No. The Heart Support Bundle is an addition to the vet’s treatment, not a replacement. In symptomatic heart failure, medication such as pimobendan or furosemide is necessary and life-prolonging. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Is this bundle suitable for cats with HCM?<\/h3>\n

Yes, in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in cats, the focus is on phases 2 and 3: fibrosis inhibition via curcumin, oxidative protection via CoQ10 and glutathione, and tachycardia management via omega-3 and magnesium.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Want to read the full scientific background?<\/p>\n

Stefan Veenstra DVM explains how RAAS, myocardial fibrosis, CoQ10 deficiency and the gut-heart axis are related to heart disease in dogs and cats.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Read the article<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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All supplements in this bundle<\/p>\n

Phase 1<\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span> Prebiotics<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span> Biofilm Balance<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span> Liposomal Vitamin C<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span> Liposomal Curcumin<\/a><\/div>\n
Phase 2<\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span> Liposomal CoQ10<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span> Omega Blend<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span> Relax Support<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span> PEA Complex<\/a><\/div>\n
Phase 3<\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span> Longevity Support<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span> Liposomal Vitamin B Complex<\/a>
\n\u2192<\/span> Liposomal Glutathione<\/a><\/div>\n
Coming soon<\/div>\n
\u2192<\/span> Taurine + L-carnitine (Vet Pro Line)<\/em><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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SV<\/div>\n

Developed and clinically substantiated by Stefan Veenstra DVM<\/strong><\/a>, integrative veterinarian and founder of NGD Care and Naturally Healthy Animals<\/a>. For personal guidance: NGD Care consultation \u2192<\/a> <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

This bundle is educational in nature and does not replace a veterinary consultation. The Heart Support Bundle is intended as a supplement to regular veterinary treatment, never as a replacement. Always inform the attending veterinarian about the supplementation in case of active use of heart medication. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n