Choosing the right supplement can be a daunting and confusing task. With so many different types of supplements available, how do you know if you are making the right choice?

Let’s start by simplifying supplements. In the USA, a supplement is defined as a product that contains a “dietary ingredient.” In other words, a supplement is a substitute for the nutrients we need for optimum health, and they might be a vitamin, a mineral, a series of amino acids or natural herbs.

Supplementing Our Diet

For most people, eating a diet high in whole foods, vegetables, fish, and lean meat provides all the essential nutrients we need to keep our mind and body in peak condition. Although, as we get older, our body changes and our ability to absorb nutrition from food can become compromised and this is where supplements can help with nutrition and health.

Whether it’s a loss of appetite, lack of sleep or attention deficit; with age our body changes its natural ability to absorb the best qualities from the food we eat. The right supplements can help us maximise our potential and be our best selves and of course, the best supplements are made ethically, with no fillers and pure ingredients to ensure their efficacy.

Types of Supplements

Today, there are many different types of supplements available. The most common types are vitamins, although many people aren’t aware that there are both fat soluble and water-soluble vitamins.

Vitamins

Most contain essential nutrients to help your body function properly and stay healthy.

• Fat-soluble vitamins can be stored in the body and include vitamins A, D, E & K. 
• Water-soluble vitamins are not stored by the body and include vitamins C & B.

Minerals

Minerals are inorganic elements that are essential for specific bodily functions, such as growth, bone health, and fluid balance. These include magnesium, iron, zinc and many others.

Proprietary Blend

A proprietary blend is a unique combination of ingredients that’s created by a supplement manufacturer. This may be targeted to a specificailment or made with unique local herbal ingredients.

Choosing the Right Supplement

If you are among the 80% of Americans who are regularly consuming supplements, consider the following when making your supplement choice:

Quality and Efficiency

Where is the product made? Do you know the country of origin and the manufacturer? Have you read the ingredients listing?

Tried and Tested

Has the product been tried and tested? Is it approved by a Regulatory Organisation?

Dose and Formula

Do you know the right dosage to consume? Have you checked the formula with your health care professional?

Additives

Does the product contain any non-essential additives? Does your supplement contain fillers or bulking agents?

Testing

Check where and how your supplement is tested. Is it tested on animals?

As we get older, our ability to absorb nutrients may decline, along with our appetite – so this is where supplements can help. Take the time to look for supplements that are made with integrity, efficacy, and a commitment to pure ingredients to ensure your future health and wellbeing.

My career as a medical professional has allowed me to research the various supplements available today. My wife Alka and I are certainly not as young as we once were, and we both embrace a balanced approach to wellbeing that encompasses both science and natural remedies for a holistic approach to health.

Take time to assess your lifestyle, consider yoga or meditation for relaxation, and switch coffee for herbal tea to keep your hydration levels up. Simple changes are a good start!

Although, if your needs are physical and biological, please talk to your medical practitioner or health care professional before you start any new supplement.

Are you taking any supplements? What ailments do they help you with? Do you notice visible change in your health thanks to the supplements?