5 minute read
Vitamin Breakdown
Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, K. Potassium, Calcium, Zinc, Magnesium. Collagen, Fish Oil, Melatonin... When you step into the Vitamin aisle of your favorite Vitam BREAKDOWN store, you're confronted with a wall of options. But what do you know about these supplements? And more importantly, which ones are right for you? Vitamin C Multivitamin
For most people, a daily multivitamin is the easiest way to ensure you're getting the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs. Be sure you take a vitamin geared to your unique needs. For instance, there are men's, women's and children's multivitamins, as well as multivitamins tailored for seniors.
Vitamin A
A helps with night vision, making red blood cells and fight off infections. It may help prevent macular degeneration and some cell damage.
Vitamin B
There are several B vitamins. Each has its own function, but most support your overall energy level. If you need to supplement your B intake, be sure which kind of B vitamin you need. A B vitamin called folate (sold as folic acid) is especially important during pregnancy! Another, biotin, may support hair and nail growth.
If you're a social butterfly, this is your best friend. While this vitamin is most well-known for boosting your immune health, it also helps your bones, muscles and skin grow.
Vitamin D
This vitamin helps your bones stay strong. It also helps your nerves carry messages around your body.
Vitamin E
E is a lesser-known vitamin, but still very important! It helps prevent cell damage caused by pollution and UV rays. It also helps keep your blood pumping!
Vitamin K
This supports blood clotting and ensures you have healthy bones. A heads-up: if you take warfarin, watch your K intake; too much can stop the drug from working.
Calcium
You know this helps support strong bones and teeth! But did you know it also helps with muscles – including your heart? How much you need depends on a number of factors, so be sure to talk to your doctor about this important mineral.
Chromium
This mineral may help keep your blood sugar levels steady. Most people get plenty from eating broccoli, grapes, lean beef, wine and whole wheat.
Iodine
Ever notice that your box of salt says it's "iodized?" That's because iodine has been added, helping you get plenty of this mineral in your diet. Too much can be harmful and can affect certain medications.
Iron
This mineral helps you make healthy red blood cells, which in turn carry oxygen to your tissues. This is an important mineral to discuss with your doctor.
Magnesium
Muscles – including your heart – need magnesium to keep moving. It also helps control your blood sugar and blood pressure!
Potassium
This mineral supports your blood pressure and kidneys. But too much or too little can cause trouble.
Selenium
From fighting off infection to supporting your thyroid, this mineral is very important – but you probably get plenty from your diet. Too much can cause some negative side effects, such as brittle nails, nausea, irritability and more.
Zinc
This wonder mineral helps you see, smell, heal and fight infections.
Do you need to worry?
Good news: f you're taking a multivitamin – or perhaps even if you're simply eating a well-balanced diet with lots of varied vegetables, fruits, whole grains and proteins – probably not! But if you're not sure or have a chronic condition that may affect your absorption, talk to your doctor. They can run a complete blood panel to see if you're lacking any important vitamins or mineral, and they can also advise whether you'd benefit from taking any other supplements.
O erSupplements
Fish Oil/Omega-3
This supplement helps support cell growth and your overall immune system. Many people take fish oil or other Omega-3 supplements for heart health as they age. Fish oil especially can help lower your triglycerides.
CoQ10
This bizarre-sounding nutrient helps convert food into energy. As a supplement, it can help raise "good" cholesterol and reduce inflamation. It has also been seen in studies to prevent migraines!
Probiotics
Anyone with "tummy troubles" has been recommended probiotics at some point. These live bacteria and yeasts help support your gut health.
Turmeric
Curcumin, a compound found in this spice, has been shown to have antinflammatory properties. It is recommended as a supplement for people suffering from arthritis or ulcerative colitis, among others.
Melatonin
Can't sleep? Melatonin is a hormone that your brain naturally produces in response to darkness, helping you feel sleepy at the appropriate time of day. People who struggle to fall asleep often find this supplement helpful... especially if they have to sleep outside of "normal" sleep hours, such as nurses who work the graveyard shift.
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that your body naturally produces that helps support your skin's structure and suppleness. Your body produces less as you age, so many people start taking this supplement in their mid-to-late 30s.
Cranberry
Studies have shown that regularly eating cranberries or taking a cranberry supplement can help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney infections and bladder infections.
Protein Powders
If you regularly work out or perform strenuous activity, protein supplements can help your body recover – and help you build new muscle! •
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