Supplement Your Life – Part 2: Daily Life

***This is the second in a 2-part series addressing supplements and their role in a healthy life. You can check out part 1 right here.***

In part one, we covered the most common supplements used for athletic performance and muscle gain. But that part of life is really only half the battle we fight. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us lead hectic lifestyles that leave us with little time to focus on our health and fitness. Diets can be fine-tuned, but they are almost never executed perfectly. Also, sometimes you just need that extra edge – who doesn’t really? This is where supplements come in handy – they can help fill the nutritional gaps in our diets and enhance our daily lives.

Before we delve into the role of supplements, it’s important to note that a healthy diet and exercise routine should always be the foundation of your health and wellness journey. However, even with the best intentions, it can be difficult to get all the nutrients our bodies need from food alone. This is where supplements can play a helpful role.

Supplements come in many different forms, from pills and powders to gummies and drinks. Some of the most popular supplements include multivitamins, omega-3s, probiotics, and collagen. These supplements can help support overall health, boost energy levels, aid in muscle recovery, and promote healthy skin, hair, and nails.

Multivitamins

Multivitamins are one of the most commonly used supplements. They contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that our bodies need to function properly. While it’s best to get our nutrients from food, a multivitamin can help fill any gaps in our diet. For example, if you’re not getting enough vitamin D from sunlight or food, a multivitamin can provide that extra boost your body needs. As we all know, vitamin C is great for immune function. Iron, Magnesium, and Zinc are all necessary ingredients that our body often does not get enough of.

A caveat here: a lot of noise has been made in recent years about how little of a multivitamin our bodies absorb. And this is true, to a point. Our bodies don’t like absorbing large amounts of a single nutrient all at once – often it’s a regulatory mechanism to prevent toxicity. Sometimes it’s the delivery method – and that’s what we can control. Instead of a dence, hard pill, try to opt for the gummies – or a liquid form, if that is available.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s are another supplement that can provide a variety of health benefits. These fatty acids are essential for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health. Like many ingredients in multivitamins, they’re not something that is a feature in the American diet. While omega-3s can be found in fatty fish, not everyone enjoys seafood or can afford to buy it regularly. Omega-3 supplements can help fill this gap.

Probiotics

Probiotics are another supplement that can be beneficial for overall health. These live bacteria help support the gut microbiome, which can have a significant impact on our immune system, digestion, and mental health. They also help you poop well, which is something that everyone should have happening in their life! They are found in a variety of dairy products and fermented foods. However, if you’re not getting enough probiotics from foods like yogurt or sauerkraut, a supplement can help support your gut health.

Collagen

I gotta admit, I debated adding this one to the list. However, collagen is another supplement that has gained popularity in recent years. This protein is essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails, and can also support joint health. Whether you’re an athlete or not, having good, functioning knees is probably something you want to continue into old age. And, here’s the thing – while our bodies naturally produce collagen, this production decreases as we age. A collagen supplement can help support the body’s natural collagen production and provide those extra benefits.

Conclusion – General Thoughts

It’s important to note that supplements should not replace a healthy diet and exercise routine. They should be used to supplement and enhance your overall health and wellness. They can help fill the nutritional gaps in our diets, support overall health, and provide additional benefits. However, as I mentioned last time, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable brand when choosing supplements. Speak with your doctor or a registered dietitian if you have any concerns or questions about incorporating supplements into your daily routine.