With the vast number of health supplements available, it can be confusing to choose which supplements are best for you. While many available supplements are targeted toward specific health issues, the following 10 supplements can help anyone jumpstart their health and well-being.
1. Fish Oil
Fatty acids, which are abundantly found in some types of fish, can help to support cell membrane growth, a healthy metabolism, and general health. While those who eat a lot of fatty fish may have enough in their diet already, for most people, adding in a daily fish oil supplement is extremely helpful.
2. Probiotics
Probiotics benefits have been making the news for years, but many people are not entirely sure what they are. Probiotics are "good" gut bacteria in supplement form. Taking a probiotic daily can improve digestion and overall health.
3. Multivitamins
While those with excellent diets may not derive any additional benefit from taking a multivitamin, these inexpensive supplements can help you ensure that you aren't missing out on any key micronutrients.
4. Whey Protein
Whey protein is an irreplaceable supplement for bodybuilders and strength athletes, but it also can support general health. A good whey protein is also a source of branched-chain amino acids, or BCAAs, which can aid in fat loss and muscle repair.
5. Powdered Greens
While fresh fruits and vegetables are generally more appetizing, a good powdered greens supplement can be helpful if you suspect you aren't getting enough greens in your diet. While you can mix the powder and drink it plain, you also can base nutritious smoothies around it.
6. L-Carnitine
While often sold as a supplement for athletes, L-carnitine, a mitochondrial catalyst that improves athletic performance and fat metabolism, also can help boost brain health and general energy. It also may help protect heart health.
7. Vitamin D3
Most multivitamins contain D3, but for many, additional supplementation is needed for optimal health. This vitamins helps you to optimally absorb calcium, and it supports general bone and tooth health. Vitamin D3 also may help protect against certain cancers.
8. Magnesium
Roughly three-quarters of American adults are deficient in magnesium, so statistically, you'd benefit from a magnesium supplement. A deficiency in this mineral can lead to anxiety, fatigue, nausea, and weakness, and it can lead to many severe health conditions. It also is sometimes sold in a formulation with zinc, which is discussed below.
9. Calcium
Most people know that calcium supports bone health, but it also can aid in fat metabolism and heart and nerve function, and recent research suggests it may help protect against some cancers. Calcium is included in many multivitamins, but be sure to check the recommended daily allowance to ensure you're getting enough calcium per day. While it is possible to get adequate calcium from diet alone, many people find that taking a supplement makes reaching their daily calcium goal significantly easier.
10. Zinc
Zinc is easily lost in sweat, making it especially important for athletes and other active people to supplement with it. Zinc is especially helpful in wound healing and immune system function, and it is used to treat a wide variety of health conditions. For those who also have trouble sleeping well, a combined zinc and magnesium supplement called ZMA may help promote restful sleep while also providing you with your daily value of both of these important minerals.
In short, while the sheer number of available supplements can be daunting, choosing a few of them to support general health is important. If you seem generally healthy but want to feel even better, try adding the above supplements to your diet.
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