It’s pretty much impossible to get ideal nutrition from diet alone — which is where supplements come in. However, some are nearly useless, others are filled with not-so-natural ingredients, and some people question just how helpful these pills are at all.
When choosing to supplement your diet, it’s crucial to choose wholly natural pills which, ideally, are simply crushed and capsuled forms of what you can find in nature.
Most people can use more than just a generic multivitamin, though that’s a great foundation. Time and again, Centrum has been ranked by researchers as the best multi, which is evidence that you don’t have to spend a lot to get a lot. Here are a ten extras you should consider adding to your regimen.
1. Calcium
Most people (especially women, and most especially older women) could do with a calcium boost. It helps strengthen your bones and prepare them for old age.
And remember, it’s never too early to start prepping for a long, healthy life. Of course, you can also pop a couple flavored Tums per day: a treat and a calcium booster.
2. Fish oil
Rich in Omega-3s, most people don’t eat enough oily fish day in and day out to get all these good fats.
Don’t like the taste? Flaxseed oil is very similar and safe for vegans. Just make sure you get your Omega-3s in, however it works, and you’ll be set.
3. Turmeric
A natural immunity booster, it can seem like a wonder supplement for those who tend to get every cold that goes around. Take 800mg per day, and remember, there’s no such thing as an overdose of turmeric.
Add it as a spice to your foods, too, for an added shot of immunity.
4. Garlic
Whether you get it as an oil or nibble on some raw cloves each day, garlic is a true wonder supplement. It’s good for all parts of your body, including your brain. You can’t have too much of it, so start eating it liberally.
5. Magnesium
This is another supplement that most multis don’t include anywhere near the 100% recommended dose. Some calcium supplements also have magnesium. If you have trouble sleeping, magnesium levels may be the culprit.
6. Vitamin D
Some multis contain enough Vitamin D, but if they don’t, make sure you take an added supplement — especially if you live in a cloudy region. Not enough D is a big cause of feeling blue and insomnia. You can also get it from the sun, but risk UV damage even with sunscreen.
7. Cinnamon
Ground cinnamon can be found in capsules for a very low price, and it’s a natural blood sugar stabilizer. It can fight off type-2 diabetes and also has traces of immunity boosts, too. Add it to your food, especially if you have a family history of diabetes and are watching your insulin levels.
8. Forsklin at 20 percent
Forskolin is derived from a plant and is a natural metabolism booster. No matter how fit you are, what your age is, or how healthy you eat, your metabolism slows down with age. Give it an extra boost with forskolin, and it won’t be so tough to fight off that impending weight gain.
9. 7-keto
This is another all-natural metabolism booster which can do wonders when you’re watching your waistline. Again, you don’t need to be in the market to lose weight to help your metabolism. An active one help keeps you young and enjoying some indulgences without guilt.
10. Green tea
It’s not a pill, but a cup (or more) of green tea per day can help ward off all types of ailments from dementia to arthritis. It can’t hurt, and it’s a great coffee alternative.
The next time you’re shopping for gifts, in addition to that The Art of Shaving strop or spa gift certificate, spring for some supplements. It’s a way you can show you really care.
