It’s unfortunate but in this day and age getting the vitamins and minerals we need is becoming increasingly difficult. Ideally, our bodies should be able to get those essential daily nutrients from the food and drink we consume each day.
However, that’s not often the case and sometimes it’s important to top up. If you think you might be deficient in any of your vitamins or minerals the first thing you should consider is asking your doctor for a blood test to be sure it’s nothing serious. They’ll also be able to tell you which supplements could give you a boost on a daily basis.
Here are 5 worth looking at:
1. Multi-vitamins
This is a great way to boost a sub-standard diet. Most people will reap the benefits afforded them by a good multi-vitamin. It helps to avoid taking a handful of pills every day while still making sure you get everything you need to function in good health. When choosing a multi-vitamin, first examine the label – find one that offers the nutrients you need most. For example, if you have a family history of eye disease, you may want to choose a multivitamin with lutein or if prostate cancer is a concern, choose a multi with boron. If you are a woman, you might want to consider one that affords you a good regimen of calcium or iron.
2. Fish Oil
While there are studies to the contrary, most doctors agree that everyone can benefit from the powerful omega-3s found in fish oil. Omega-3s are linked to higher levels of HDL or good cholesterol, improved metabolism and better nutrient absorption. Just be sure to choose high-quality supplements with high levels of DHA and EPA. Do not be tempted to substitute affordability for quality as those with lower levels are mostly ineffective.
3. Vitamin D3
Appropriate levels of vitamin D are essential for maintaining good health. Low vitamin D has been linked to several types of cancer, weight gain, depression, poor nutrient absorption and low bone density. Vitamin D3 is the most readily available for easy absorption in the body. The sun’s rays, when absorbed by the skin, convert to D3 in the body. Unfortunately, most people do not get enough sun to keep these levels up to par. Studies have shown that doses of vitamin D3 in excess of 800 IU per day can be very beneficial to overall health.
4. Coenzyme Q10.
CoQ10 is well-known as an inflammation fighter. Inflammation in often the root cause of excess weight gain, arthritis, headaches and heart disease. Daily doses of 100 mcg of CoQ10 have been shown to improve a great many of these ailments. We suggest choosing a soft gel over the powder capsule to improve absorption.
5. Folic Acid
It is no secret that folic acid is important to women during their reproductive years. It is shown to decrease the risk of children born with disorders of the brain and spinal cord. What many aren’t aware of is that fact that men and women of all ages can also benefit from it. Folic acid is an essential B-vitamin that has been proven to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and improve arterial blood flow – lowering your risk of hypertension and heart disease.