Health Supplements

Importance of Health

Health is a dynamic process because it is always changing. We all have times of good health, times of sickness, and maybe even times of serious illness. As our lifestyles change, so does our level of health.

Those of us who participate in regular physical activity do so partly to improve the current and future level of our health. We strive toward an optimal state of well-being. As our lifestyle improves, our health also improves and we experience less disease and sickness. When most people are asked what it means to be healthy, they normally respond with the four components of fitness mentioned earlier (cardiorespiratory ability, muscular ability, flexibility, and body composition). Although these components are a critical part of being healthy, they are not the only contributing factors. Physical health is only one aspect of our overall health.

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients because they perform hundreds of roles in the body. There is a fine line between getting enough of these nutrients (which is healthy) and getting too much (which can end up harming you). Eating a healthy diet remains the best way to get sufficient amounts of the vitamins and minerals you need. But if you find you are lacking, a Vitamin & Mineral supplement can help get you over the line.

Notable Health Products

• Vitality Switch by Switch Nutrition
  
• Gut Performance by Everybody Everyday
• All Natural Super Greens by Macro Mike

FAQs

What are the dos and don'ts of taking health supplements?

Do:

• Most health supplements come with comprehensive instructions, so read the label carefully to understand what you’re taking. 
• Vitamin supplements are a health investment, so choose products from reputable brands to ensure you get the quality your body deserves. 
• Check with your doctor or health care professional before taking any supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or are currently taking a prescription medication. 
• Start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. 
• Take supplements with food or after a meal to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. 

Don’t:

• If you miss a dose of your vitamin supplements, don’t double up the next day. Always stick to the advised dosage.
• Stop taking a supplement suddenly without consulting a professional for health care advice. 
• If pregnant or breastfeeding, refrain from incorporating new vitamin supplements into your regime without consulting your doctor.
• Share supplements with others — they may not be suitable for everyone. 
• Leave your health and vitamin supplements around children as they may be harmful if accidentally taken in large quantities. 

When should you take health supplements?

If your diet lacks essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients, you may benefit from a health supplement. The decision of when or whether or not to take a health supplement should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, so they can assess what nutrients or vitamins you’re deficient in. 

What should not be mixed with health supplements?

Certain health supplements interact negatively with nicotine. For instance, carotene combined with smoking could increase your risk of lung cancer. As tempting as it might be, it's best not to drink tea or coffee with your supplement, as caffeine and tannins can prevent the absorption of the nutrients. 

Additionally, some supplements can interact with prescription medication, making them less effective or causing unwanted side effects. If you take any medication regularly, check with your doctor before taking a vitamin supplement. 

Should you take health supplements with meals?

In general, taking a health supplement with food may increase its absorption and effectiveness. With that said, some health supplements are made to be taken with meals, while others can be taken on an empty stomach. It is essential to read the instructions on the supplement bottle or package and to speak with a healthcare professional if you have any questions.

Do you need to see a doctor before taking health supplements?

Before adding new vitamins or health supplements to your daily regimen, it's important to consult a doctor, especially if you have any existing medical condition or are already taking prescription medications. Health supplements aim to counteract deficiencies, so identifying these deficiencies can help you choose the right health supplement for your needs.