Daily supplements can fill any nutritional needs in the body. They are designed to append to a person’s diet, providing additional health benefits. These can include vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other nutrients that may be taken orally. Common examples are vitamins A and D, calcium, iron, fish oil, echinacea, and probiotics. They may also come in tablets, gummies, and powders.
The supplement functions through different biochemical mechanisms, for example, vitamin D gets converted in the liver to 25-hydroxy-vitamin D, then in the kidneys to active 125-dihydroxy-vitamin D. Calcitriol binds to vitamin D receptors in cells, acting as a transcription factor to regulate genes for calcium absorption. This supports bone health and immune function. Calcitriol self-regulates by upregulating CYP24A1 (inactivation enzyme) and suppressing CYP27B1 (activation enzyme).
Benefits Of Taking Supplements
Certain vitamins like iron, B vitamins, and CoQ10 can help reduce fatigue and increase energy levels. In addition to this, ones like vitamin C, Vitamin D, and probiotics can help support immune function and reduce the risk of illness. Calcium and Vitamin D can help promote healthy bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, same as omega-3 fatty acids and potassium that can help support heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Ashwagandha and magnesium can help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
Now, if you are looking for ways to boost your immunity, vitamin C supports collagen production for tissue repair. It is important to consider that supplements don’t substitute, instead they work alongside a balanced diet. Here is all you need to know about your daily supplement.
Types Of Daily Supplements
Daily supplements fall into several categories, let’s take a look at these categories.
1. Vitamins
Vitamins are grouped into fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins include A(for your vision and bone health), vitamin D( calcium absorption), vitamin K( blood clotting), and vitamin E (antioxidants). For water-soluble vitamins, think of vitamin D, and B-complex, which can help with metabolism and immunity.
2. Minerals
Essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and red blood cells can help with red blood cell formulation, immunity, and muscle function.
3. Specialized formulas
Several supplements are made to suit the specific needs of individuals, like probiotics, omega-3, and biotin for your hair, gut health, and joints.
4. Life Stage Specifics
At different stages of your life, you would need supplements that you can take daily to accommodate your needs. For example, pregnant people may need folic acid, prenatal vitamins, etc. Women who go through menopause may also need phytoestrogens, calcium, and vitamin D, as well as seniors who may need vitamin D or iron for cognitive function.
5. Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements like ginger and turmeric may also help with inflammation and indigestion, as well as balance women’s hormones.
How To Choose The Right Daily Supplement
Choosing the right supplement depends on your lifestyle, goals, and heath needs. In order to choose the right supplement, you should consider your needs, for example, Are you looking to boost your immunity? Or improve digestion?. Also, to choose the right one you should check for the quality and safety; choose supplements from better brands with transparent ingredients, as well as certifications from third-party associations.
Safety Precautions
Consult with your healthcare professionals before taking any supplement. Choose one from recommended brands and check for allergies and sensitivities. Always take the right dosage and check for interactions with other medications.
Seek medical advice before giving supplements to your children and pregnant women. Inform your healthcare professional before taking any supplement after undergoing any medical surgery or procedure.
Regularly monitor your health and adjust your supplement regimen as needed to avoid adverse effects. Check clinical studies supporting the supplement’s effectiveness(that is look for science-backed ingredients).
