ANTIAGING PRODUCTS
BUYING GUIDE TO VITAMINS & MINERALS
Vitamin &
Mineral Supplements
Vitamins are organic compounds found in food, which
help in the functioning of the various metabolic systems
of our body. We can also obtain vitamins in the form
of vitamin supplements. Vitamins
- help to protect our body from diseases and infections
- are essential for the formation of various enzymes
and hormones which control metabolic activities such
as digestion, circulation and excretion.
The types of vitamins essential for the human body
include:
Whilst it is preferable to take vitamins from whole
food sources rather than synthetic vitamins, most food
today is deficient and supplements are essential to
maintain optimal health.
Our fruit and vegetables contain only fraction of the
anti-oxidants they used to.
Multi-Vitamins are like insurance. They complement
your anti-oxidant needs no matter what you eat. They
are inexpensive and available in every health shop.
Selecting Vitamin & Mineral Supplements
Ask for High-Potency multi-vitamins. These contain
higher doses of anti-oxidants and other ingredients.
They need not be the most expensive brand, aim for an
average of 200%-300% DV.
Natural or Synthetic Vitamin Supplements?
There is a recent trend towards natural vitamins and
nutritional supplements as opposed to the more traditional,
synthetic versions.
Many experts have concluded that natural vitamins and
nutritional supplements are easier absorbed by the body,
thereby proving more effective in their interaction
within the body.
Synthetic products cost less than their natural counterparts.
However, some would argue that because natural products
may be more effective, the extra expenses associated
with these products may pay off over the long run.
There is some limited evidence that some of the materials
contained in synthetic vitamins and nutritional supplements
may not be beneficial to a human being over time, some
might even be harmful over time. The research in this
regard is not, as of yet, conclusive. This has already
encouraged synthetic supplement manufacturers to boost
the absorption potential of their products.
Quality Endorsements
Check the label for quality seals "USP or or “ConsumerLab”.
These two seals assure you that the supplement contains
every ingredient claimed in the claimed. The seal will
also guarantee the supplements have been checked for
poisons such as pesticides and contaminants such as
bacteria.
Gender & Age Appropriate
If getting multivitamins, chose one specifically for
your gender and age. Our need for vitamin supplementation
changes at different times in our life.
Expiry Dates
Ensure that expiry dates are well beyond when you expect
to finish the vitamin contents. If purchasing EFA's
or acidophilus supplements, ensure they have been stored
appropriately to avoid oxidation or loss of potency.
Key Nutrients
Chromium - supports glucose tolerance,
reducing sugar cravings and possibly diabetes. It also
helps to lower blood cholesterol, thus helping to prevent
atherosclerosis.
Folic Acid - also helps in RNA and
DNA (and red blood cells) production, but only in dosages
higher than the 400 mcg. RDA. A dose of 1–2 mg.
twice daily is commonly prescribed in Canada for this
supportive function.
Molybdenum - is another trace mineral
that may play a role in inhibiting cancer.
Niacin - is the active circulatory
stimulant form of vitamin B3. Improves circulation and
lowers cholesterol, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular
disease.
RNA - RNA supplements have yet proven
to be very effective.
Sources: high chlorophyll foods such as the
blue-green algae, chlorella, spirulina, and wheatgrass.
Choline - as is found in lecithin,
supports production of cell membranes and the important
neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Organic Germanium (trace mineral complex,
germanium sesquioxide) is an oxygenating nutrient that
I am sure future research will demonstrate to possess
antiaging properties.
Mucopolysaccharides [chondroitin sulfates]
- help reduce inflammation associated with cardiovascular
disease and arthritis. It also helps keep collagen tissues
and cells strong.
Sources: green lipped mussels and oysters
Related Reading
Ginseng - Anti-cancer and antiaging
benefits
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