According to the CDC, over half the U.S. adult population uses supplements. Most often, people turn to popular supplements when they feel something is lacking in their own diet. Whether it’s a lack of nutrients or the need for an extra boost, there is a reason supplements are so helpful.
From what the most popular supplement is to the benefits behind them, this is your go-to supplement guide. Just remember that before introducing any supplement, you should always consult your doctor. Let’s jump into everything you need to know about dietary and athletic supplements, and more.
1. 9-ME-BC
If you suffer from a lack of focus or forgetfulness, 9-ME-BC supplements could be for you. 9-ME-BC is a nootropic. These help to promote neuron growth. Neurons help to control your long-term memory.
It can improve your cognitive abilities, memory, as well as alertness. The supplement can help you focus, stay awake, and retain more information. It has also been shown to have some anti-inflammatory effects. With some nootropics, you may see the effects wear off quickly, but with 9-ME-BC, you’ll see longer-lasting results.
2. Calcium
The best multivitamin for women over 40 will contain calcium. This is because people, especially women tend to lose calcium as they age. If your diet lacks leafy greens, meat, and dairy, you might be missing out on vital amounts of calcium.
To help keep your calcium levels up, be sure to eat a diet rich in vegetables, cheese, yogurt, milk, meat, and greens. These are all great sources of calcium. If you’re a practicing vegan or have an intolerance to dairy, it can be tough to get enough calcium from your diet. This is where a calcium supplement can make up for the gap.
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the most popular herbal remedies. For everything from the common cold to the flu, if you’re battling an illness, someone has probably told you to consume more Vitamin C. Natural sources of Vitamin C can be found in fruits and vegetables. Citrus fruits, in particular, are great sources of Vitamin C.
Vitamin C works as an antioxidant. This will provide your body with much-needed energy. When you’re working out regularly or battling an illness, it can be extremely beneficial to add a Vitamin C supplement to your daily routine. This will help give your body and immune system a boost.
4. Fish Oil
Fish oil can help your cardiovascular health, fight off arthritis, and keep inflammation at bay. Fish oil may also increase brain function. In much of the world, people aren’t eating enough fish. If your diet doesn’t contain natural sources of fish oil, a supplement can do your body good.
Besides fish oil supplements, eating fatty fish such as salmon, trout, and mackerel can help. Fish oil can help reduce inflammation and keep you feeling alert and well-rested.
5. Folic Acid
While folic acid is vital to everyone, it is especially helpful to pregnant women and women in their childbearing years. This is why you’ll often see high amounts of folic acid in prenatal vitamins.
To help your body get as much folic acid as possible, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, a multivitamin containing folic acid is often recommended.
6. Iron
Iron is essential to your overall health and body function. It is a crucial part of your enzymes and proteins. If you suffer from an iron deficiency, you may feel more tired and be prone to illness. A lack of iron can decrease your immunity and your body’s ability to fight off infection.
If you are a woman or a vegetarian, you are far more likely to have an iron deficiency. This is where taking an iron supplement can be beneficial. Your doctor can tell by a blood count if you lack iron. Too much iron can be harmful, so always consult with them.
7. Melatonin
With all the stress in life, it’s no wonder people don’t get enough sleep. According to the Sleep Foundation, nearly 45 percent of Americans report that insufficient sleep affects their daily activities.
Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally released in your body. Melatonin helps your body to know when it is time to be awake and time to sleep. Light, screens, and other stimulants can interfere with your natural production of melatonin. This is where a supplement can help get you a better, more restful night of sleep.
8. Multivitamins
Multivitamins are beneficial to anyone. If you’re an athlete, a child, a man, or a woman, there is almost always something lacking from your diet. Even the healthiest eaters may find that their bodies don’t always absorb nutrients as they should.
A multivitamin will contain several different vitamins and supplements to help boost your immune system, restore your cells, boost your energy, and more. The best multivitamin for men may actually contain probiotics. If you’re also taking protein supplements, these can help keep you regular.
Athletic supplements will often contain extra protein, iron, vitamin C, as well as vitamin D to keep your energy levels up. When you’re working out regularly or training, these supplements can help your body rejuvenate.
The Most Popular Supplements Explained
While many of us think we’re eating healthy, there is often something lacking in our diets. If you feel extra tired, forgetful, sluggish, or sleepy, it might be time for a supplement. (cialis) Unfortunately, our bodies don’t always absorb enough of what we need from diet alone.
The most popular supplements will work with your body to improve function, boost your immunity, and repair your cells.
If you’re looking to add a supplement to your diet and daily routine, speak with your doctor about what will work best for you. For more diet and lifestyle tips, check out the health section for great resources and ideas.
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