It is said that a good, balanced diet is enough to provide the body with all the essential nutrients. However, in this fast-paced world, it is difficult to catch up with all the body-fuel requirements. That is where the supplements jump in. Supplements have always been a matter of discussion and thought. There is no requirement of a doctor’s prescription before buying them; however, it is advised to consult a doctor before taking one.
The right supplement plays an important role in filling the nutritional gaps inside your body. This is an add-on to your overall health.
When to take Supplements?
Dietary supplements help to prevent chronic diseases. A combination of vitamins and minerals helps reduce the risk of illness as per February 2014 U.S report. These supplements are effective due to various reasons that include:
- Deficiencies- Vitamins and Minerals: Doctors recommend supplements if there is a deficiency of certain vitamins or minerals found in your blood.
- Diet Restrictions: Due to health conditions, allergies, or a choice (say you’re a vegetarian) your body might not be getting all the nutrients. That is when you can take the benefit from some supplements.
- Age: With age, diet changes. Along with it the body’s nutrient requirements. These might be covered up with supplements.
- Medications leading to deficiencies: Certain medications result in nutrient deficiencies. It is advised to take the doctor’s advice regarding supplement intake.
- Pregnancy: To promote baby health, certain nutrients are essential. Talk to your gynecologist about pre-pregnancy supplements such as folic acid, to ensure the baby’s healthy development.
Best 5 Supplements
1. Multivitamins and Minerals
Sometimes, the diet lacks an essential amount of fruits and vegetables. The daily supplements help the body gain essential nutrients in this situation. Multivitamins are safe and might reduce the risk of cancer in men (the Journal of the American Medical Association, 2012). According to reports, people who are healthy should take a multivitamin thrice a week to fulfill the nutritional gap.
2. Fish oil
Omega-3 fatty acids supplements improve your health. When the diet is fish-oil-based, the blood circulation improves. The supplement can thin your blood. However, refer to a doctor before including the supplement in your diet.
3. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is the sunshine Vitamin. It is essential for bones. However, most people don’t get enough of it according to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. It is easy to know if you need this supplement through a blood test. Vitamin D also assists in Calcium absorption and regulating the level of phosphorus, which promotes healthy bones and teeth.
4. Calcium
According to a review of data published in 2014 in BoneKey Reports, Calcium supplements help slow bone loss and prevent bone fractures. Calcium is responsible for building bones, contraction, and expansion of muscles and blood vessels, and secretion of hormones and enzymes. Adding to this, nerve impulse transmission also happens in the presence of calcium.
5. Vitamin B12
With age, the requirement for Vitamin B12 increases. Vitamin is particularly found in animal products. This includes fish, poultry, and milk. There is a high possibility that you don’t get enough in your diet. According to a report published in 2013 in Annals of Clinical Biochemistry, Vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with an increased risk of heart diseases, weak memory and changes in thinking, dementia, and bone loss.
EndNote:
A high-quality supplement is a key to maximizing health benefits. It is advised to purchase the supplements from reputable manufacturers. A few manufacturers provide certificate analysis, which advocates the purity of supplements like Alfa Vitamins. Alfa Vitamins is a worldwide supplement and vitamin store online supplying high-quality and natural products for everyday nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Consider them. Make sure to consult your doctor before starting a new supplement, particularly when you are on some medication, to avoid side effects.