Supplements for a Healthier You: Benefits, Criticisms, and Choosing Wisely

Supplements can be a great way to fill nutritional gaps in your diet. For instance, if you are a vegan or vegetarian, taking a vitamin B12 supplement can help you meet the recommended daily amount of this nutrient. Calcium is essential for bone health, and taking a calcium supplement can be beneficial if you are lactose intolerant, allergic to dairy, or choose not to consume it. Additionally, supplements can help bolster your immune system and increase your energy levels.

Since moving back to the UK, the weather has affected my skin and energy level very differently. My skin looks dull, and my energy level is lower than usual. In addition to the environment, I am a woman over 40, so things are naturally changing anyway. Recently, I told my daughter, "I am starting to look old!" She replied, "Ah?nah. You do not look old. You look tired. You look like you have not eaten all day, slept well, and are overworking yourself."?

She was right. I have been going, doing, and trying nonstop. Along with grieving, aging does not stop; there is always something to stress you out if you let it. Recognizing I needed a boost, I talked to my friend in the US, who is an advocate of supplements. He suggested a few to try, so I hopped over to Amazon to find them.?

1. Black Seed Oil
2. Wildcrafted Sea Moss Gummy
3. Moringa Leaf Powder

I could not find these exact brands on the Amazon UK site, but I did find some suitable replacements.

Black Seed Oil: 319fa

Sea Moss Gummies: https://amzn.to/3JQLtTz

Sea Moss Gel: https://amzn.to/4dxgI3G

Moringa Leaf Powder Capsules: https://amzn.to/4b49zX5

Moringa Leaf Powder: https://amzn.to/44uCnFw

You can also find Flaxseed Oil and Dried Soursop Leaves from the wellness list on my Amazon storefront.

Supplements complement your healthy lifestyle by adding essential nutrients you might not get from your diet alone. In addition to assisting your immune system and increasing energy levels, the right supplements can help protect you from free radicals that causes damage to cells and contribute to aging rapidly. Antioxidants such as vitamin E and beta-carotene protects your cells by helping to neutralize free radicals. However, remember that you should never use supplements as a replacement for a healthy diet and lifestyle, and always consult your healthcare professional before adding any supplements to your daily routine.

Yes, supplements come with some criticism since they are not heavily regulated.?Like all things, fraudulent companies always put out low-quality products that have no impact on your?wellness,?whatsoever.?Therefore, it is vital to check the brand's legitimacy and quality. You can do this by reviewing what other customers have said about the product while quickly searching the brand or company itself.

Some of the main criticisms around supplements are as follows:

1. Lack of regulation: The supplement industry should be closely regulated by the FDA, meaning supplements can be contaminated with harmful substances or contain inaccurate ingredient labels.

2. Potential for harm: Some supplements can?interact with your prescription medications or cause harmful side effects?if taken in large doses.?This?is particularly true for supplements that are marketed as "natural" or "herbal," which can often be just as potent as prescription drugs.

3. False claims: The supplement industry needs more scientific data to support their health and wellness claims to help consumers choose brands with real health benefits.

4. Cost: Supplements can be expensive, especially if you take multiple supplements daily.?

While quality supplements can benefit your wellness goals, be mindful when buying them. You do not need an excessive amount of supplements. Find one or two that work best for your body and your finances. Supplements providers make many claims about their products. However, it is up to you to carefully research any supplements you are considering and discuss them with your healthcare professional before adding them to your daily routine. As people become more health conscious, dietary supplements will continue to grow, yet it is crucial to remember that they cannot replace healthy habits. Your food choices, exercise regimes, and mindset profoundly affect your daily function. Choose wisely, listen to your body, and always consult your doctor.