Taking supplements has become a very popular way of treating illness naturally by giving our bodies the nutrients they need to function properly and build the body’s immunity to fight infections. However, with so many supplements in the market today, it can be hard to know what they all treat and which ones are really worth taking.
Did you know that there is no universal preparation for all? Different people require different amounts of each constituent of a supplement. Each gender an Age group.
The following is a list of the top supplements that almost everyone can take to improve their health. However, it is still a good idea to check with a health care professional before taking any supplements to make sure you are taking the right supplements at the recommended daily allowance and in the right form.
1. Multivitamin
In theory, we should be able to get all of our nutrients from our diet. However, in today’s society, where most of our food is either processed or washed and cleaned, fully cooked, refrigerated for longer periods we are missing many essential nutrients we used to get from the soil, so even the healthiest eaters might not be getting all of the nutrients they need. That is why taking a good multivitamin every day is so important. Look for one that contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, Magnesium, Calcium, and vitamins B1, B2, B6, and B12 in the recommended daily allowances for your gender and age– all of which can help boost your immune system and give you more energy during the day.
2. Calcium
The highest population of people does not get enough calcium from their diet. This means those people are not getting the mineral they need for strong bones and teeth. Women in particular start losing bone density earlier, and getting enough calcium from the start is the best nutritional defense against this loss. The recommended per day is 1,000 mg for most adults. It is recommended that you get calcium in the form of calcium citrate. This form optimizes bioavailability, causing fewer symptoms in people who have absorption issues.
3. Vitamin D3
you want to keep colds away. Taking a daily dose of vitamin D3 can help. In a perfect world, we would get enough vitamin D by exposure to sunlight, but since we now spend most of our time indoors (with clothes on), it is crucial that we get vitamin D from other sources. Vitamin D not only helps with the absorption of calcium and phosphorus into our bloodstream, and a vitamin D deficiency can reduce your ability to heal from infections and can be a risk factor in developing an autoimmune disease. Lack of vitamin D can lead to bone deformities such as rickets in children, and bone pain caused by a condition called osteomalacia in adults.
Some unavoidable factors can lead to Vitamin D deficiencies, e.g. geographical location -People who live in northern latitudes or areas of high pollution, work night shifts, or are homebound should aim to consume vitamin D from food sources or supplement whenever possible. Exclusively breastfed infants need a vitamin D supplement, especially if they have dark skin or have minimal sun exposure, regular use of sunscreen, and full-body clothing all through.
4. Folate
Folate (or folic acid) is best known for aiding in fetus development and preventing birth defects. However, if you are growing out your nails, fighting depression, or looking to combat inflammation, this ingredient is important, too. You should aim to get around 400 mcg of folate if you are pregnant.
5. Fish Oils
Having a healthy heart is important, and taking a daily dose of fish oil is one of the easiest things you can do to protect it. Studies have shown that fish oil can lower blood pressure, reduce blood clotting, and decrease your chance of having a fatal heart attack. In addition, fish oil is a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids, which contain anti-inflammatory properties, boost your immune system, and can even have a positive effect on depression and mood. Researches around the world also indicate that they help in boosting memory and eyesight.
6. Magnesium
did you know that about 80 percent of adults suffer from a magnesium deficiency? Magnesium plays a critical role in many functions in the body, including nerve transmission, muscle contraction, energy production, bone, and cell production, and more. Taking a daily magnesium supplement can help with a variety of conditions including asthma, migraine headaches, muscle cramping, osteoporosis, heart disease, and can even help to calm your nerves and reduce anxiety.
7. Probiotics
Bacteria is not very bad, in your gut, bacteria is actually good. With all the antimicrobial soaps, cleaners, and antibiotics we are exposed to, our digestive tract is often not getting the right kind of bacteria to keep it in balance. Probiotics are living microorganisms that promote good gut health, which can strengthen your immune system, improve digestion, reduce your chances of getting colds or the flu, and help cure irritable bowel disease. Try to get more probiotics in your diet by eating probiotic yogurt or by adding a probiotic supplement.
Do not rely on your supplement
This may be obvious, but it is worth repeating: When it comes to vitamins and minerals get it from food first, our bodies are designed to reap nutrients from the food we eat. Eating a varied and balanced diet will provide the required nutrients even if not fully.
Who we are: Harley’s Limited is one of East Africa’s most respected Pharmaceutical, Medical, OTC products, and healthcare service providers.
