Understanding the Different Types of Health Supplements
The human body needs a wide range of nutrients and does not always get them from food, so dietary supplements can help provide those missing nutrients. However, they should not replace a balanced diet.
Many different types of health supplements include
vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements. Understanding what you need from
each can help you maximize your supplement purchases.
Some of the most common types of health supplements are
mentioned in the article below:
Vitamins
Vitamins are organic compounds that your body needs in
small amounts to function properly. These nutrients differ from other
biological compounds, such as proteins and carbohydrates.
You get most of your vitamins from food. But if you need
to get enough of them through your diet, you might need supplements. Check out here to know more about health supplements.
Taking supplements is not recommended as a substitute for
eating a well-balanced diet. But you may need a multivitamin to get your body's
essential nutrients.
Dietary supplements are safe if you don't take them in
excess. Check the label for the recommended daily allowance (RDA).
Minerals
Minerals are inorganic substances that have a definite
chemical makeup. They may be made of a single element or contain many elements
in a compound.
In most cases, minerals are formed by geological
processes on the Earth. Generally, they are solids with a crystal structure.
They may be categorized as primary (needed in large
amounts) or trace (needed in small amounts). Adults need both types of
minerals.
The best way to get the minerals you need is through
various foods. You can find them in meat, poultry, fish and shellfish, nuts,
seeds, legumes, whole grains, dairy products, and vegetables.
Specialty
Supplements
Specialty supplements can help with specific health needs
or conditions. For example, people with allergies or gastrointestinal problems
may benefit from dietary supplements that contain anti-inflammatory compounds.
These products can also be helpful for athletes, as some
of these supplements contain nutrients that support metabolism, energy, and
athletic performance and recovery. They can also prevent or treat specific
health problems like diabetes or high cholesterol.
Some specialty supplements can be found in grocery or
nutrition supplement specialty stores. The FDA does not regulate them like
foods or medications, but it is a great way to provide your body with essential
vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
Omega-3
Fatty Acids
They are polyunsaturated fatty acids with more than one
double bond in their chemical structure. They are found naturally in various
foods and fish, but supplements are also available. They are available in three
different forms, a-linolenic acid (ALA), EPA acid, and docosahexaenoic acid
(DHA).
Omega-3 fatty acids help lower blood triglycerides and
increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) levels. They also have
anti-inflammatory properties, improve vascular function, and reduce the risk of
heart disease.
Herbal
Supplements
They are the type of dietary supplement that people take
to improve their health. They come in different forms, including tablets,
capsules, powders, extracts, and teas.
They prevent illness, treat infections, relieve fever,
and heal wounds. They can also help to reduce stress and boost the immune
system.
The United States estimates that one-half of adults have
taken at least one herbal product in the past 30 days. In addition, almost 70%
of older adults use them.
The FDA or other agencies do not regulate herbal medicines
and do not go through the same testing that drugs do. As a result, they may
interact with other medications and can even cause serious side effects.
Protein & Fiber supplements
These supplements contain various forms of protein, such
as whey, casein, or soy, that can help support muscle growth and repair.
Fiber supplements contain soluble or insoluble fiber that
can help improve digestion, lower cholesterol, and support weight management.
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