Essential Vitamins and Supplements for Overall health
The requirements for vitamins and nutrients vary from person to person, but there are certain essential vitamins and minerals that are required for healthy functioning of the body in general.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is the most important vitamin for the human body that has multipurpose functions for improving overall health. Vitamin A is a substantial antioxidant that aids to boost the immune system, improve vision, reduce the risk of heart diseases and slow down skin aging. Vitamin A can be easily found in meat, fish and dairy products along with the beta-carotene present in carrots, sweet potatoes and green peppers that are converted into vitamin A in the body. You can also get your daily supply of vitamin A from supplements and capsules. Vitamin A in large doses can be toxic; therefore it is best to stick to the recommended daily dosage that is 2300 international units (IU).
B Vitamins
Next in line are the 8 B vitamins that are essential for maintaining metabolism and muscle tone and maintaining the functions of the mind. Vitamin B9 or folic acid is responsible for keeping the red blood cells healthy and providing protection against birth defects and cancer. B-complex vitamins also provide energy and reduce the effects of stress on the body. In most cases, people can get their daily dose of B vitamins from foods like whole grain bread, beans, asparagus and fortified breakfast cereals. People can take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folate on a daily basis.
Liposomal Vitamin C
Vitamin C is often referred to as the cure-all vitamin that not only prevents common cold but is also essential for normal growth and development. The antioxidants in vitamin C help to boost the immune system, prevent prenatal problems and eye diseases and helps to heal wounds faster. Citrus fruits, berries, green peppers, broccoli and other colorful vegetables are packed with vitamin C, and most people don’t need to opt for supplements. But the recommended daily dosage of vitamin C is 75 milligrams.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D supplementation is necessary because people are often deficient in this vitamin. It is necessary for optimum absorption of calcium that is the building block of strong and healthy bones. Research shows that vitamin D deficiency can increase the risk of heart diseases, cancer and cause cognitive decline. The sun is the best source of vitamin D, and it is recommended to get at least 30 minutes of direct sun each day. Foods such as fish, egg yolk and cheese contain small amounts of vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is common and therefore, is best to take a supplement after consulting a doctor or physician. The recommended daily measure of Vitamin D is 1000 to 2000 IU.
Magnesium
Magnesium deficiency is one of the widespread deficiencies in today’s time. Although, magnesium is abundantly available in the soil and well water, but conventional farming methods strip this mineral from the soil. Magnesium is one of the crucial minerals for the body that is required in more than 350 enzymatic functions that regulate metabolism, blood pressure and sleep cycles. Sufficient magnesium in the body can prevent cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes and migraine headaches. Leafy green vegetables, seaweed, kelp and nettle are good natural sources of magnesium. But if you are deficient in this mineral then you can take a supplement of 300 to 400 mg per day after consulting a doctor.
Fish Oil
Fish oil provides a unique combination of antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that is one of the best combinations to improve overall health. The antioxidants help to reduce inflammation in the body and promote the formation of healthy cells, hormone and brain development. Fish oil is especially important during pregnancy and for children when their brains are still developing. You can enjoy fatty fishes such as salmon and mackerel 2 to 3 times a week or opt for a fish oil supplement. The recommended daily dosage of fish oil is 1000 to 1200 mg.
Probiotics
The next important supplement that is vital for overall health and wellness is probiotics and our diet is often missing or insufficient in this particular element. The effective bacterial strains present in the probiotics helps to restore the healthy balance of gut bacteria and helps to maintain great intestinal health that is akin to maintaining great overall health. Some of the best natural sources of probiotics are yogurt, curd and buttermilk. You can also opt for probiotics supplements but make sure the probiotics formula contains the Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1 strain of bacteria. The recommended daily dosage of probiotics is 1 to 2 million CFUs.
Liposomal Iron
Iron is a mineral that your body needs for growth and development. Your body uses iron to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells
All the treatments – medicines, injections and vaccines are for general information of the reader. Please consult a doctor and get a formal prescription before taking any medicines, supplements and injections.