The rapid urbanization in more regions throughout the developing world is having an impact on the world’s population. More and more people are migrating to cities and with that comes a more urban lifestyle.

This lifestyle is traditionally defined by less physical activity and the adoption of a more “Western” diet. The typical pattern of a “Western” diet is one that is rich in over-refined sugars, high intakes of red and processed meats, high in refined and saturated fats, and low in plant-based fibres.

This type of nutrition transition usually results in disastrous health consequences. A diet high in red meat, fat, sugar and salt, and low in fibre can have a strong negative health impact.

Taking vitamins and mineral supplements can help bridge the “nutrition gap” found in “Western” diets. The addition of vitamins and supplements will help optimize your daily nutritional intake and function at optimum health.

If your diet is currently leaving you nutritionally short, here are five types of supplements that can give you the extra nutrients you need for optimal health.

1. Heart Health

As more and more people consume “Western” diets, many are putting themselves at higher risk for health problems. To combat the risk of heart disease, strokes, lower cholesterol and improve blood pressure, consider the addition of heart health products.

Specific nutrients such as Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), omega-3 fatty acids and garlic have been found to reduce the collection of risk factors associated with heart disease. CoQ10, in particular, has been found to be a heart health powerhouse, serving as an antioxidant and improving heart function.

2. Antioxidants

If you are on the traditional “Western” diet, you may find yourself nutrient deficient, particularly with antioxidants. Antioxidants, typically found in vitamins and plant-based foods (think leafy, green vegetables and fruits) help protect your cells against free radicals.

Antioxidants are necessary to your nutrition as they help fight against the oxidation process, a natural chemical reaction process that can damage the cells in your body. Taking antioxidant and natural immune boosters like echinacea, ginseng, organic spirulina and vitamin C & E helps maintain and support your immune health.

3. Digestive Health

In recent years, probiotics have been making headlines for its spectrum of health benefits. Probiotics help in the absorption of nutrients promotes intestinal microflora balance and maintains the healthy functioning of the intestinal system.

Supporting a healthy digestive system is important as it is responsible for the critical functions of your body’s immune and digestive systems. Having irregularities in your digestive health can result in complications such as stomach pains, constipation, diarrhoea and excessive gas.

The addition of digestive health supplements ensures your body maintains a healthy digestive system.

4. Bone and Joint Health

The inclusion of vitamins for healthy bones and joints will help your body maintain healthy cartilage, prevent osteoporosis, and help manage joint pain from osteoarthritis. If you’re looking to improve your body’s bone and joint health or arthritis and joint pain, consider supplementing your diet with glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D.

These supplements will help keep cartilage, joints and bones healthy, and many such as glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids, have an anti-inflammatory effect as well.

5. Eye health

While you’ve probably heard that carrots help your body maintain optimal eye health, certain products can also have a positive effect on your eye health.

Supplements like lutein, zinc and vitamin C and E can help delay or prevent eye-related problems. The National Eye Institute found that vision supplements can help reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts, the two leading causes of vision loss in the U.S.

Do you really need supplements?

Vitamins and mineral supplements should only serve to address any nutrition gaps in your diet. Most of the nutritional benefits found in supplements can also be found in the food we eat. Maintaining a well-rounded and healthy diet, exercising and taking necessary, additional supplementation will go a long way in ensuring your body obtains optimal health.

Lastly, be sure to consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

AUTHOR BIO

Gehana Kennedy is the owner of vitaminshop.ae, the go-to source for high-quality wellness products including a range of step-by-step formulated vitamins, fitness supplements and natural skincare products. With innovative ideas and implementation of new technologies, she was able to establish a platform that offers not only quality products but also valuable information for customers.

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