Fast-paced lives and busy schedules often lead to unhealthy habits, eating processed foods and junk foods for ease. Unfortunately, this can mean our body does not get proper nutrients through our diets. This lack of nutrients can result in different health impacts and concerns. That is why dietary supplements have become a convenient choice for a lot of us. The supplements, although not a replacement for a balanced and varied diet are a great way of providing our bodies with the essential nutrients it needs.
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A Brief Concept About Dietary Supplements
Nutritional supplements contain minerals, vitamins, amino acids, herbal ingredients, and enzymes. You can find these supplements at most supermarkets and chemists and they are usually available in different forms, such as:
- Liquids
- Tablets
- Powders
- Capsules
Although a great way to boost the vitamins in your diet, you cannot replace prescribed medicines with dietary supplements. However, these supplements can prevent different health disorders caused by a lack of nutrients.
Taking your dietary supplements every day can help your body maintain normal physical functions, particularly those you maybe be struggling with such as fatigue, sleep, mental function, etc. Moreover, you can also help your body to naturally reduce the risk of some lifestyle-related diseases. However, it is essential to pair these supplements with a proper healthy diet. Without a balanced diet, your supplements will not work in their intended ways and you may not see the benefits of these vitamins.
Choosing The Right Dietary Supplement
Mineral And Vitamin Supplements
Mineral and vitamin supplements are highly popular, as they can save you from chronic diseases. However, while choosing vitamin supplements, you must make the right choice for you and your lifestyle.
For instance, Vitamin D is best for those who need stronger bones and extra calcium in their diet. While Vitamin B12 is mostly utilized by vegans, as it helps in maintaining the body’s red blood cell count. This is due, in part to a diet lacking in milk, meat, and other dairy products all of which possess naturally occurring B12. That is why they have a high risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency and may need some additional supplements. Similarly, older persons cannot easily absorb this Vitamin from their daily foods, and thus, they may benefit from the inclusion of Vitamin B12 supplements in their lifestyle.
Vitamin C deficiency or a lack of this vitamin in your diet may cause complications, such as:
- Damaged skin
- Weakened Nails
- Swollen joints
- Bruising
- Damaged hair follicles
To prevent these symptoms, you can take a liposomal Vitamin C supplement, like Vita-C. This supplement is available in a liquid version, helping your body absorb the maximum benefits much easier. Comparatively, by taking pill supplements, 80% of the vitamin content gets affected during the digestive process.
Thus, to ensure the highest absorption rate, you can rely on the liposomal vitamin supplement. By taking this supplement, you can also increase collagen synthesis, giving you healthier skin health. Vitamin C prevents wrinkles and fine lines on your skin, making it a great choice for those wanting to keep their skin looking great/
Furthermore, with Vita-C supplements, you can boost both your immunity and nervous system, making these stronger and more resistant. These vitamins also enable your body to absorb iron more effectively, which has ample benefits in itself.
Protein Supplements
As a macronutrient, protein helps in building muscles, making enzymes, and repairing your tissues. By consuming protein powder, you can promote weight loss and tone your muscles. There are various types of powder that cater to different diets, including plant-based and dairy-based ones. The regular intake of protein supplements can reduce your blood pressure and promote your muscle growth.
Protein supplements also have the potential to increase your muscle size and make it stronger. They are best for those who engage in resistance training, like weight lifting.
Fiber Supplements
Fibers provide you with health benefits, as they can reduce cholesterol and control your blood sugar. Fibre may also help contribute to healthy weight loss. It can be difficult to in-take fiber-rich foods regularly so, there are different types of fiber supplements available to help boost any fibre found in the diet. These most commonly manufactured fibers are maltodextrins and polyols.
Moreover, some of us take a very high amount of fiber through our daily diet. It is not a healthy choice, as more than 40 to 50 gms of regular intake of fibers can affect the nutrient absorption capacity. Thus, to take the right amount of fiber, you may rely on supplements.
Probiotic Supplements
Probiotics refer to good bacteria which promote healthy digestion in the gut. You can find them in some drinks and foods, like yogurt. Probiotic supplement manufacturers claim that their products have digestive benefits and help consumers in healthily losing weight as part of a balanced diet and exercise. However, it is important to consult your doctor or clinician before introducing these to your routine or diet to ensure that this is the best choice for you.
Folic Acid Supplements
Folic acid is one of the B vitamins that can help to prevent birth defects. Physicians prescribe these supplements for pregnant women. However, supplements containing multivitamins may have folic acid as part of their formula.
Dietary supplements refer to the different types available and the range of health benefits these offer. It’s always helpful to read the label before buying the product to make sure you know about its ingredients and the vitamins or minerals within it. This will help you to take the right supplement based on your needs. It is also better to combine more than one supplement to get the desired outcome.
