In the pursuit of good health, it can be extremely helpful (especially in the long term) to round out your diet with vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other valuable, healthful ingredients. That is what supplements are for. Here is a short exposé on some of the best and/or most popular supplements out there.
In discussing the best supplements on the market, we take a look here at supplements that could be considered to be the most
useful; we also look at the supplements that are some of the most
popular. This list (or lists) is not informed by a certain category or purpose, other than these two criteria. They are listed in no particular order.
While supplements are less regulated, and by-and-large less serious in their regard and effect than prescription meds, taking them still deserves medical consideration. We recommend that you speak to your doctor before trying any new supplements.
Most Useful
The following supplements are notable for their variety of potential uses and benefits. Some of these are important out of bodily necessity, and a couple are merely naturally-derived, but highly useful.
Vitamin D is a vitamin in which many people are deficient, and it has a huge, wide variety of different roles in the body. Because Vitamin D is so necessary and so commonly in short supply for many people, supplementing with it has been found to be helpful for depression, bolstering the immune system, and
preventing cardiovascular disease, among other things.
Antioxidant is a word which can be applied to multiple supplements on the market. Antioxidants work against oxidation and the
production of free radicals, a natural process which has multiple effects that are undesirable, such as aging of the skin.
Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly found in
fish oil supplements, and they contribute to a variety of positive long term health outcomes. These include a lower risk of heart disease, improved exercise recovery, and a healthier brain. Omega-3s must be consumed as the body does not produce them.
Turmeric is a spice which contains the
active ingredient curcumin. It is commonly available as a supplement, and it can be added as a spice to meals, as well. Turmeric has been shown to have significant
anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it useful for remedying symptoms of arthritis. It has a range of other good properties, too.
Folate is a vitamin which is absolutely crucial for
red blood cell production and DNA production. This multi-purposed supplement is common in many fruits and vegetables. Historically, many Americans have experienced
deficiency of folate. This can cause birth defects and other issues. Supplementing with folate is life-improving and potentially life-saving.
Most Popular
The following is a list of some of the most highly acclaimed, and most used, supplements on the market. They are commonly touted for their efficacy, and used by many.
A multivitamin, especially one targeted to your age and your sex, is one of the most popular supplements in med cabinets in the U.S. A
multivitamin is most useful for compensating for any potential dietary shortfalls in vitamin or mineral intake.
Whey protein is highly common among regular gym-goers who are intent on gaining muscle, and other athletes as well. A serving of
whey protein provides excellent, necessary help for muscle growth, and a whole range of other bodily functions as well. Whey protein contains a range of
branch-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are considered the building blocks of most types of protein.
Fiber supplements have long been common. Fiber is regarded as most valuable for
treating constipation and encouraging bowel function. Fiber has a wide range of effects, and these are not all commonly known. These include reducing the chances of heart disease and obesity.
Probiotics are popular, especially in more recent years, as Americans are aware of the benefits of having a healthy gut microbiome, and that is what probiotics contribute to.
Probiotics are also useful in recouping the healthy bacteria in your gut after you have been taking a medically prescribed antibiotic.
Creatine is another supplement that is common among serious gym-goers and athletes, but not as much as whey protein.
Creatine is popular among athletes because it brings a series of crucial benefits for gaining fitness, including
muscle growth, the increased replenishment of ATP (which powers muscular contractions), and an increase of energy efficiency.
There is a wide range of supplements out there, and a look at the best supplements (both the most useful and most popular) is worth it. If any of the above supplements seem useful to you, talk to your doctor about properly using them, and even if they are right for you!
