WELLNESS
So here we are in that time of our life where we feel good, we look good, besides maybe a few extra pounds here and there, and we are the very least concerned about some of the ailments that are plaguing the rest of society. We re all familiar with those diseases; the ones that our parents are complaining about diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, enlarged prostate to mention just a few. And, of course besides a cold every once in awhile or a bout of the flu, the worst we are dealing with is a nasty hangover after too many cosmos the night before. However, now is the time when we need to be practicing prevention. Believe it or not it is this neglect during our younger years that sets the stage for future health challenges. And add a little bit of the genetic influence and whoa watch out!
Supplements are one piece of the puzzle toward prevention besides a healthy diet and exercise. And the supplement world can be overwhelming and confusing. Listen to an infomercial today and you can bet you will find a supplement to cure everything from impotence to migraines and everything in between. And unfortunately it is time for us to move on from Flinstones®. But the biggest question out there is where to go and what to do.
First and foremost consider taking a high quality multivitamin. There are huge differences as to what is available on the market today. One a Day® and Centrum® are quite popular but believe it or not they are not usually the best choice for most. These multivitamins often contain many preservatives as well as artificial ingredients that are not only unnecessary to the body but lack in their therapeutic value. Natural choices are the better choices. Depending on the nutrient such as vitamin E for example, the natural form is much more therapeutic than the synthetic form.
In addition, many brands of multivitamins only contain the minimal amount of vitamins and minerals. Typically one will see 100% of the Recommend Daily Value and feel pretty confident in the product. However, many do not realize that 100% refers to the amount of nutrients necessary to prevent a nutrient deficiency disease from occurring. The 100% does not however promote "optimal" wellness which is where we want to be to practice prevention.
You also want to consider a multivitamin that meets your specific needs. A multivitamin like many prescribed medications does not have a blanket approach. What may be good for you may not be the best for your significant other. For instance, most males and post menopausal women unless anemic require an iron-free formula to protect the heart. Some people may wish to consume a multivitamin with additional B vitamins to help the body deal with stress. Others may be looking for antioxidants to protect the cells such as lutein for the eyes and alpha lipoic acid to help regulate blood sugar.
Step 2 is to make sure you are consuming a high quality calcium and magnesium supplement. These two nutrients are partners in prevention. We have all heard and the government has given their stamp of approval that supplementing with calcium will prevent osteoporosis. The best form of calcium for our time of life unfortunately is not those colorful Tums® that commercials have shoved down our throats but instead a calcium citrate. The main reason for this is that Tums® and products similar are made up of calcium carbonate, a very inexpensive form of calcium. Calcium carbonate is easily assimilated by the younger generation when we are still developing our bones and have the digestive enzymes necessary to aid in absorption. However, our systems require something more as we grow older as less digestive enzymes are present. Quality is as important as a multivitamin, so seek out a calcium citrate with out all of the fillers.
With that said, it is estimated that up to 80% of us are deficient in magnesium. It just is not in the foods as it once was. Magnesium plays many vital roles in the body one of which is to aid in the absorption of calcium. In addition, magnesium helps the muscles to relax and may be helpful in conditions such as PMS, fibromyalgia, and depression.
Most importantly, when putting together your supplement program do your homework and make sure you are working with a reputable retailer. Seek out one that can discuss with you the different products as well as match one up to meet your lifestyle needs.
Next month, step 3, Essential Fatty Acids.
For more information, references, or questions please email jfiume@ritzmanrx.com.
This information is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to take the place of your current healthcare program or advice from you healthcare professionals
