What 5 Vitamins Work Hard For You

What 5 Vitamins Work Hard For You

There are many vitamins and mineral supplements on the market, and it can be confusing what to take. There’s no list of essential health supplements, and it’s best to get most of your nutrients from food, but that’s not always realistic. Since everyone’s diet is different, the vitamins and minerals they consume will vary widely. You’re in luck if you’re looking for information on which general supplements are best for overall health. Here are the top five crucial supplements for overall good health.  

1. Vitamin D 

The best source of vitamin D is the sun, but if you don’t spend a lot of time in the sun, live in an area that doesn’t provide adequate sunlight throughout the year, or use sunscreen, you are missing the benefits while avoiding the sun’s harmful rays. In the winter months, it’s hard to get adequate vitamin D from sun exposure since the days are shorter, providing less sunlight. A vitamin D deficiency is linked to many health conditions, and adding a vitamin D supplement has been shown to boost the immune system and reduce mortality. If you take a vitamin D supplement, it’s essential to take vitamin D3, which has K2, for proper absorption. Calcium and vitamin D work synergistically to build strong bones, so be sure you get enough calcium in your diet for healthy bones. 

2. Fish Oil or Omega-3 Supplements

Fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, a very healthy component found in fish. It’s one of the most popular supplements on the market, and for a good reason. An omega-3 fish oil supplement can help support brain health, cardiovascular health, and blood pressure levels. A good quality supplement with the proper balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is essential, as the appropriate amount of EPA, DHA, and GLA will be in these supplements. DHA and EPA are triglycerides derived from marine lipids, and GLA comes from cold-pressed borage seed oil. 

3. B Vitamins

There are eight different B vitamins; getting enough is essential to your overall health. Many foods contain B vitamins, but most people need help to get enough from food sources, especially vegetarians and vegans. Animal foods are the only source of B12, so many vegans and vegetarians will need B12 supplements. Multivitamins generally contain all B vitamins, and B-complex vitamins are available as a separate supplement. Your doctor can order a test to check your B vitamin levels. B vitamins are water-soluble, so if you take them and don’t need them, they won’t harm your body. 

4. Probiotics

Gut health influences so much in the body … especially mood and digestion. Good bacteria have been found to help ease digestive issues and fight infection in the body. Yogurt has naturally occurring probiotics, but higher potency supplements are also available. Taking a probiotic supplement can help with many health ailments, and people of all ages can benefit from taking a probiotic

5. Magnesium

Most Americans are magnesium deficient, as this mineral has been depleted from our soil over the years. However, a genuine deficiency or having symptoms due to inadequate magnesium is uncommon. Magnesium has been referred to as the “miracle mineral,” and adding a supplement can help calm your nerves, reduce headaches, and improve digestion. 

Talk With a Doctor 

To determine which supplements your body needs, you can talk to Dr. Leo, who can run blood work to determine exactly which supplements are best for you. If you are suffering from any health ailments, getting to the root cause can eliminate symptoms. Give our office a call today to schedule your first appointment. We are located at 6321 Executive Blvd, Rockville, MD 20852, in the Executive office park. We look forward to helping you support your health!

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Dr. L. J. Leo

Dr. L. J. Leo

Dr. Leo began his education at the Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Virginia, where he earned his doctorate in osteopathy. He completed his internal medicine residency through the U.S. Army and had the honor of serving multiple overseas tours before retirement.

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