Some years later I developed tachycardia and a variety of arrhythmias. Once, when I had been consuming inordinate amounts of caffeine I ended up in the hospital emergency department because of the rhythm problems. I was monitored for two days (no coffee during that time) and all seemed well – though the electro physiologist INSISTED I have a cardiac ablation. His office staff actually threatened me if I refused the procedure, but that's another story.
I did not have the ablation.
In the meantime I was prescribed atenolol (a beta blocker) to help control the arrhythmias. After improving my diet and eliminating caffeine, the problems diminished dramatically. I stopped the atenolol. The rhythm issues started again a few years later, so I again decreased caffeine and started taking atenolol when needed. That worked a little, but I was still experiencing a few bouts of rapid heart rate a couple of times a week. I wanted to not take drugs, but I sure didn't want electrical ablation of my heart.
During that time I discovered that there is a correlation between nitric oxide levels, heart rate, and humming. No, this is not a joke. Nitric oxide in the blood seems to calm the heart, slowing the rate, and the humming vibrates the nasal passages - the area in the body that can produce more nitric oxide when stimulated. Therefore, I tried humming when my heart rate seemed to be changing. Success. That's a trick anyone can use when confronted with a runaway heart rate.
Again, the humming fix was only temporary and I wanted something better.
By chance, six months ago I noticed a report connecting caffeine consumption with reduced levels of taurine and l-carnitine in some people. Also, by chance, I attended a presentation that mentioned the cardiac benefits of taurine and l-carnitine, both ingredients in a natural supplement product, Cardimax. I started taking two of those capsules twice daily and I can report that I am not having bouts of irregular or rapid heartbeats. There are no side effects except better heart rate, some improved memory, and a better ability to focus. I still have a cup or mug of coffee most days, yet my heart keeps a steady rhythm.
Is this a cure? Maybe. I'd prefer to think I have recognized some important things about my physiology and I've found a way to compensate for problems that cause high heart rate for me.
What's in Cardimax?
- Hawthorne Extract, long known to be a tonic for the heart.
- Taurine and L-Carnitine, both known to balance calcium and potassium, which are vital for heart function. Taurine also reinvigorates natural killer cells of our immune system.
- Quercetin, a bioflavonoid with numerous beneficial properties against high blood pressure.
My personal experience can certainly not be interpreted as proof that Cardimax does anything positive. Yet, using this product is the only change I've made recently in my life and my heart rhythm is normal and I don't have "attacks" of arrhythmias. Therefore, I heartily recommend Cardimax to anyone who is concerned about heart health, high blood pressure, and high heart rates.
