From vitamins and minerals to diet pills, there are thousands of options to choose from. But do you really need any of them, do they really work and, if so, which are the best? Evidence suggests that some supplements can improve health in different ways but a visit to the health food shop can be an overwhelming experience. It’s hard to know what to choose from the dizzying array of dietary and nutritional supplements on the shelves. According to recent studies, the most popular nutritional supplements are multivitamins, calcium, and vitamins B, C and D.
Multivitamins
The benefits of multivitamins are widely known with almost half of all American adults consuming a multivitamin or mineral supplement in 2013. In addition, many people take dietary supplements when eating a poor diet in order to ensure they meet their nutritional needs. A study from the Harvard School of Public Health showed that taking a daily vitamin can increase life expectancy by an average of six months. These daily vitamins and mineral supplements can help the body produce and maintain healthy cells and tissues.
Calcium
Calcium contributes to bone health, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Vitamins C and E are antioxidant molecules that prevent cell damage and help maintain health. Many supplements have mild effects with few risks. Vitamin K, for example, reduces the ability of blood thinners to work.
Vitamin D
That said, vitamin D is the “sunshine vitamin” and many of us are not getting enough of it. Vitamin D is a good option to discuss with your doctor. Most doctors suggests taking a daily vitamin D supplement or getting safe sun exposure to maintain adequate levels of vitamin D in the blood but getting persona; health advice is necessary to care for your own medical needs
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient which helps the body produce collagen, maintain bone strength, and protect cells from oxidative damage. It also aids in digestion and fights infections. Vitamin C is found in many foods including citrus fruits, leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, potatoes, broccoli, strawberries, mangoes, kiwi fruit, papaya and pineapple. It can also be taken as a supplement. A Vitamin C can boost your immune system, helps with wound healing, and can even help with weight loss!
