Supplements have been wildly popular ever since they first made their debut in the 1940s, and the demand for these little dynamos only seems to be rising. As cheap, fast, ultra-processed foods become more and more prevalent, people are greatly lacking in the vitamins and minerals their bodies desperately need. For those who are waking up to become more health-conscious, supplements look awfully attractive. But are they worth the hype? We say yes! Read all about the 5 greatest benefits of supplements and which ones you should consider taking:
They Fill in the Nutritional Gaps
Normally, you should be able to get all the nutrients you need if you eat a healthy, balanced diet full of whole, organic foods. Unfortunately, countless Americans don’t get enough of the essential vitamins and minerals they need, especially calcium, potassium, magnesium, fiber, and vitamins A, C, E. This can sadly occur even if you eat well and avoid the typical Western diet, thanks to nutrient-depleted modern soil and eroding environmental conditions. Supplements can help fill in the gaps whenever you’re unable to hit all the dietary marks. They’re especially helpful for those who suffer from food allergies, eat a restricted diet, have vitamin deficiencies (especially due to an ongoing health condition), or are pregnant or might become pregnant.
They Promote Greater Health
Much like a healthy diet, ample sleep, regular exercise, and stress regulation, supplements can be a fantastic tool to add to your wellness toolbox. While they may not cure or treat diseases, they can help protect you against heart disease, cognitive decline, and numerous additional ailments. They are especially important for people who live with food restrictions or certain chronic health conditions that inhibit nutrient absorption in the body (think Crohn’s or celiac disease). Supplements can help in optimizing your health and making you feel better than you have in years!
They Can Give Your Immune System a Boost
Now more than ever, everyone seems to be more concerned about their health. If you want to keep your immune system strong, supplements can help give your body the proper ammunition and armor it needs. In particular, any supplements that include ginger, astragalus, echinacea, orange peel, or elderberry can give your immune system a much-needed boost.
They Can Help Children Grow and Stay Healthy
Think back to when you were a kid – were you a picky eater? Did you sneak your vegetables to the family dog during dinnertime? Children tend to be picky eaters – if you have kids and find that this is the case, supplements might serve your children well! A multivitamin or a specific amount of targeted vitamins and minerals can help fill in any holes in your child’s diet, even if they have a varied, high-quality diet.
They Come in Many Forms for Your Convenience
It’s easier than ever to get the right supplements in your day! From capsules and tablets to powders, chewables, and liquids, there are many ways you can make room for the vitamins and minerals your body needs. Many of them can even be added to your smoothies or teas!
Which Supplements Should You Take?
Before you head out to the supplement aisle, know this – 1.) there are hundreds if not thousands of types of supplements on the market, and 2.) the supplements you might need can differ from what others require. This is when speaking with a knowledgeable functional medicine doctor and getting a few specific lab tests done comes in handy. More than likely, you might only need a small amount of tailored vitamins to help optimize your health.
Of course, there are a few supplements that everyone should consider taking, including the following:
- A quality methylated B-vitamin complex will help bolster your energy production and immunity while protecting your cardiovascular and neurological health.
- A high-quality omega fish oil will take care of your ticker, reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease.
- A probiotic will help proliferate good bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. A healthy stomach usually means a healthy life!
Additional vitamins you might consider taking may include:
- Collagen or collagen peptides to help the body form and maintain integral connective tissue, regulate metabolism, and continue your body’s production of collagen.
- Magnesium for improved muscle function, bone strength, cardiovascular health, and more.
- Spirulina to help you get the iron, phytonutrients, and iodine you need.
- Turmeric to help combat inflammation, especially if you struggle with chronic inflammation.
- Vitamin A to strengthen your immune system and combat autoimmune diseases.
- Vitamin C to boost your immune system, of course. This is especially helpful during the cold and flu season.
- Vitamin D to help keep your bones, muscles, and teeth healthy.
- Vitamin K2 to help control inflammation in your body.
- Zinc to ward off infection and increase your white blood cells.
Closing Thoughts from The Wellness Connection
Remember, nothing is more important than a healthy, organic, well-rounded diet. Food is medicine, so your main source of nutrition should come from what you put on your plate every day. It’s also wise to address any illness or ailment you might have by tackling the root cause instead of counting solely on supplements to work their magic. Of course, there is certainly a place for targeted nutritional supplementation; it can fill in the gaps and help you achieve your health goals along the way!
Also, when considering which supplements to buy, remember that quality is key. There are two main types of supplements out there: pharmaceutical-grade and direct-to-consumer supplements. What you find in your typical superstore or health store is generally consumer-grade. If you buy these, make sure you read the labels to avoid fillers and unnecessary binders and ingredients. It’s always best to do your research and choose a trusted company that makes high-quality supplements.
Need Supplements? Look No Further Than The Wellness Connection!
Speaking of relying on someone you can trust, The Wellness Connection can help you achieve your optimal level of health! By using targeted lifestyle changes, nutritionally-balanced eating strategies, and a customized supplement program, our doctors work with you to restore proper function to your body, reducing symptoms and the need for medication. We provide pharmaceutical-grade supplements that provide industry-leading potency, purity, and absorption while eliminating artificial ingredients, allergens, and toxins. To learn more or schedule your appointment, please call us at (636) 978-0970 or make an appointment online!