Wellness supplements provide nutrition gaps with adequate intake, address specific health concerns and support overall well-being. They may include vitamins, minerals, herbs or amino acids.
Choose a brand with an excellent reputation, and look for products that have undergone third-party testing. Look for supplements with dosage indication on their label as well as quality seal certification from an independent group.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in various food items and supplements, produced endogenously by sunlight striking your skin, and produced as part of optimal bone and immune health. Studies have also demonstrated that people who maintain high levels of vitamin D are less likely to suffer from autoimmune disorders.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium to strengthen bones and prevent rickets in children as well as osteomalacia in adults, as well as boost immune function, support the growth of nerve cells, and may reduce cancer and depression risks. For optimal results, consume most of your vitamin D from food; otherwise opt for D3 (cholecalciferol) over D2 (ergocalciferol), which requires a valid prescription to be taken by mouth and is less easily absorbed by the body. Talk to your physician regarding dosage recommendations; an overdose could cause too much calcium buildup in the blood as well as kidney and heart related health issues – consult with them about any recommended dosage restrictions as consuming too much can increase risk factors for renal and cardiac issues as well as kidney or heart related health concerns.
Glucosamine and chondroitin
Millions of people use glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, as well as another similar supplement called methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), to ease the discomfort caused by osteoarthritis – caused when cushioning cartilage wears away over time. These dietary supplements come in tablet, capsule, powder or liquid forms as part of multi-supplements for joint health.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally-occurring substances found in cartilage that acts as a cushion between bones in a joint. Their main use is to slow cartilage degradation while also decreasing inflammation in the body.
Studies have produced mixed results, yet there is some evidence to support glucosamine and chondroitin as possible helpers for relieving osteoarthritis pain and improving mobility in some individuals. They are safe low-risk options that may supplement other medications for OA; however, due to lack of rigorous testing these supplements must first be discussed with your healthcare provider prior to consumption.
Fish oil
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), making it a highly touted way of protecting heart health, alleviating inflammation, improving mental wellbeing and lengthening life. While two servings of fatty fish each week or taking an approved medication like Icosapent ethyl might benefit those suffering cardiovascular issues, recent research indicates that high doses may actually increase risk of atrial fibrillation among those without such issues.
Other benefits of fish oil supplements include relieving pain and medication needs associated with rheumatoid arthritis, lowering blood pressure in those with mild-to-moderate high blood pressure and improving infant visual development and cognition. When selecting a high-quality supplement be sure to select one with DHA and EPA in each capsule and is either third party tested or has the seal of approval from Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOEDO-3).
Fiber
Average Americans do not consume nearly enough fiber – an essential nutrient for digestive health, cholesterol reduction and weight management. A diet rich in whole foods offers both soluble and insoluble forms of fiber for maximum effectiveness.
If diet changes do not provide sufficient dietary fiber, a doctor may suggest supplementation through powders, tablets or capsules; popular examples are Psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl) and Methylcellulose (Citrucel).
Some supplemental fibers can cause belly bloat and gas, so it’s wise to introduce them slowly while drinking plenty of fluids. Garden of Life Raw Organic Fiber is one such product which won’t cause gas and is perfect for vegans or gluten-free diets; its ingredients include quinoa sprout, pumpkin seed sprout and raw organic stevia leaf with prebiotic effect as well as five grams of soluble fiber per serving; additionally it includes six B vitamins to support fat, carb and protein metabolism.
