For many of us, part of supporting a healthy lifestyle and exercise regime may include taking a food supplement or two. But choosing the right food supplements can feel a little daunting, especially when faced with rows and rows of options in your favourite shop.
Did you know?
According to a 2021 Health Food Manufactures Association Survey, over 70% of UK adults take a food supplement and almost half are taking these on a daily basis.
What's more, the four most popular food supplements are:
The reality is almost everyone may benefit from a food supplement
Creating a good foundation
A balanced and healthy diet is the best way to obtain all the vitamins and minerals you need, but sometimes it’s hard to get the balance right and there are days when despite our best efforts, we simply don’t eat as well as we should.
This is especially true if you avoid certain food groups due to food intolerances, are a ‘picky eater’ or follow a more plant-based diet (being vegan or vegetarian, for example). A multivitamin and mineral formulation may be a useful way to support your daily intake of the nutrients you need for health and wellbeing.
Solgar has various multivitamins to suit various ages and lifestyles such as Formula VM-75, Omnium, Vegetarian Multiple and Female Multiple to name a few.
Don't forget your Omega-3s
Found throughout the body, omega-3s are important for overall health and are particularly important for the heart, brain and eyes. Omega-3s may also help support a healthy pregnancy.
There are three main types of omega-3s: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). In short:
-Ala is found in plants like seeds (flax seeds) and nuts (walnuts) and oils.
-EPA and DHA are derived from marine/ fish sources (salmon, cod liver, mackerel and sardines)
Plant based omega-3s (ALA) are not readily converted to EPA and DHA in the body and therefore fish-based omega-3s that provide both DHA and EPA are preferred. If you do not enjoy eating fish, an omega-3 fish oil supplement may be an option for you.
Immune system support- It's not simply for the Winter months
Good health cannot exist independently from a strong immune system. Every minute of every day, this complex system works hard to maintain health. A poorly functioning immune system increases susceptibility to less than optimal wellbeing and various factors may negatively affect immune health such as high alcohol and sugar consumption, a lack of sleep and a nutrient poor diet.
Certain nutrients like vitamin D are known to support immune system function. However, recent data has suggested that about 40% of Europeans are vitamin D deficient (<50 nmol/L), making the need for vitamin D supplementation important for many.
In fact, The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) recommends an intake of 10 mcg or 400 IU of vitamin D, throughout the year for everyone aged four years and older.
Keep in mind |
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-Food supplements are meant to complement other healthy habits and should be used in combination with other important lifestyle choices such as easting a healthy diet, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep. -There are no 'quick fixes' in food supplements and regular use over time will provide the best results. -Buy trusted brands from reputable businesses. -Read the product label- this will provide you with key information about the product. -Follow the directions for use and do not exceed the daily recommended dose. Solgar® has been committed to quality, health and wellbeing for 75 years. Our mission is to create the finest nutritional supplements in small batches, made possible through tireless research, using only the finest raw materials. |
Disclaimer:
Food supplements should not be used instead of a varied balanced diet & healthy lifestyle.
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