Archive for the ‘Supplement Recommendation’ Category

PostHeaderIcon Vitamin Supplements and Your Child



In a perfect world, your children would eat a balanced diet with the right amount of fruits and vegetables recommended by nutritional standards. However, we all know that rarely happens. Many children do not like and sometimes refuse to eat some kinds of fruits and vegetables. This makes it difficult to ensure they are receiving a well-balanced diet that provides all the vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy life. There are things you can do as a parent to ensure your child is receiving adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals in their diet.

Using vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure a well-balanced diet can begin during pregnancy. It is very important for pregnant mothers to obtain the recommended dose of folate and vitamin B-6, since it is an essential component in the formation of genetic material and hemoglobin in red blood cells. Lack of folic acid can cause the mother to become anemic and increases the risk of miscarriage. Folic acid deficiency may also cause the child to be born with a deformity or disability. If you are pregnant and you feel you cannot obtain the adequate amounts of vitamin B-6 on your own, it may be a good idea to look into a vitamin supplement for the duration of your pregnancy and talk to your Doctor.

Once your child is born there are more steps you can take in the first 2 years of their lives, which may increase their vitamin intake and provide a healthier lifestyle. Babies who are breastfed often lack vitamin D. This is not as necessary if the mother is eating a well-balanced diet, however breast milk alone does not give the baby the recommended daily amount of vitamin D. Formula fed babies do not need any vitamin supplementation. Medically approved, commercial iron-fortified formulas provide babies with the recommended amount of vitamins they need, so babies require no additional supplements. Giving vitamin supplements to a baby who is already receiving the daily recommendation can be harmful and potentially become very dangerous for your child.

When your child reaches the age of about 2 (and older) and is eating solid foods from all food groups, vitamin supplements are usually not necessary. Try and provide the adequate amount of vitamins and minerals to your children through the foods they eat regularly. Sometimes this can be an impossible task and if you think your child is lacking the sufficient amounts of vitamins, the best thing to do is to contact their doctor who will recommend whether or not vitamin supplements are necessary. It is important to remember that vitamin supplements are meant to accompany food and are in no way meant as a replacement for a healthy diet.

Health-related information changes frequently, and while every attempt has been made to ensure the content in this article is up to date and accurate, you should always check with a doctor or nutritional expert before undertaking any substantial change in diet or lifestyle.

PostHeaderIcon Healthy Weight Loss Supplements



If you are overweight and diet and exercise regime can be somewhat of real challenge for you, a great step you can make is find weight loss supplements to make your weight loss more easy. Unfortunately most of the overweight people sink into the vast choice of weight loss pills available without researching what weight loss supplements are healthy.

In this article I will try to give some useful observation considering healthy weight loss supplements.

Well if we dig into weight loss supplements market and research it we will find two basic types of supplements available – chemical weight loss supplements and herbal or natural weight loss supplements.

First type is a known and approved way to assist in weight loss that was used for many obese people and really helped in their weight loss routines.

There are several most known brands of chemical supplements, like Xenical or Phentermine or Meridia – all based on chemicals affecting your weight in several ways of action.
For example, Xenical acts like fat blocker. It is known to reduce up to 25% of weight if used correctly. The pill is considered suitable even for long term weight loss.

Or Meridia, affecting our brain chemicals to increase body metabolism and suppress appetite. The supplement also showed effectiveness on obese patients.

Unfortunately, using chemical weight loss supplements is not a healthy way of weight loss for sure. Chemical combinations have side effects and in some cases can affect our health badly. They are used under doctor’s prescription usually and just in case patient does not have any serious medical conditions.

Another group is natural weight loss supplements, also known as herbal. These weight loss supplements are actually a mix of natural ingredients or both natural and safe chemical components designed to maximally affect our excess weight.

The only serious thing to mention here is that not every “natural” component is safe for your health. Well known example is ephedra or ma huang – herb that is used in many weight loss supplements as metabolism enhancer and thermogenic as well. Only after several fatal cases and severe side effects reported by many people who used ephedra, it has become clear that not every natural component is actually healthy one to use.

Ok, it’s not that bad at all – here we got several natural ingredients that can you can consider as a healthy aid for your weight loss. They are widely known – it is Hoodia Gordonii, Green Tea, Chitosan, Garcinia Cambogia, Fiber and some others… Though most of them hasn’t been researched thoroughly to prove their weight loss capacities, they showed real efficacy with many people using them in form of supplements and getting positive weight loss results.

So recommendation is simple – if you are not morbidly obese and in need of serious medical help, natural weight loss supplements are the healthy way for you to make weight loss faster and easier. Just don’t rely too much on “magic pills” and use them along with diet and exercise routines.

Be aware of dangerous herbal components and choose weight loss supplements only from reputable brands and distributors.

PostHeaderIcon Pick Vitamins that Work for You – 6 Tips



We all know that a diet of food rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients is essential to our health and well being. Yet you tried a nutritional supplement that did little for you despite a friend’s or salesperson’s enthusiastic recommendation. Then scientific studies conclude supplementation has no benefit or could even be harmful. No wonder you may be confused! By following a few simple rules, you can choose nutritional supplements that can help maintain and improve your health.

1. Make sure the supplement is in the right form. Many vitamin makers take short cuts to keep production costs low. Inorganic forms such as magnesium oxide or calcium carbonate are difficult to absorb. Most people don’t benefit from them. Organic forms such as calcium ascorbate are well absorbed because they are similar to vitamins in our food. They are also large molecules that do not fit in a small tablet. The daily dose of a good multivitamin requires more than one pill.

2. You need more than one form of some vitamins. Many makers use a single form, again as a short cut. The vitamins in our food come in many forms, and each of these forms performs different functions in our body. So instead of beta-carotene, look for mixed carotenoids. Instead of the succinate or acetate forms of vitamin E, also called tocopherol, look for natural mixed tocopherols.

3. Make sure the dosage is high enough to make a difference. If your supplement contains the U.S.RDA or less, it will likely make little difference in your health. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) amounts prevent deficiency diseases such as scurvy from lack of vitamin C, according to the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Research Council. The RDAs do not define the optimal intake for an individual. There is a growing body of research showing that optimal intake for many nutrients, especially antioxidant nutrients such as vitamins C, E, beta-carotene and selenium may be much higher than their current RDA. In their 1989 report, the Food and Nutrition Board stated that the RDAs do not apply to individuals with “unusual stressors.” These stressors often include prescription drug use, the habits mentioned below and chronic illness.

4. Don’t expect supplements to make up for bad habits. Smoking, processed food, carbonated beverages, caffeine, alcohol, and antacid consumption are just a few habits that deplete you of vitamins and minerals or make it difficult for you to absorb them. Work on stopping these habits instead.

5. Make sure you can utilize the supplement. Some people with health problems cannot absorb or utilize even the best vitamin and mineral supplements. Homeopathic, herbal or other support may be needed. If you think this may be your case, a practitioner skilled in these areas may be able to help.

6. Don’t cherry pick. Taking only one or two single vitamins or minerals can be harmful, as was found in the 1996 Beta-Carotene and Retinal Efficacy Trial (CARET). This study was stopped early because the researchers determined that a synthetic form of beta-carotene increased the incidence of lung cancer in smokers. If you apply our rules to the above study, you will see potential reasons for the bad outcome. Instead of mixed carotenoids, they used a poorly absorbed form of beta-carotene that is also known to block the absorption of carotenoids from food. They also used only one vitamin in isolation. Beta-carotene in the doses used in the study becomes a free-radical, unless vitamins C and E are present to neutralize it.

Free radicals are molecules that damage cellular structures, including DNA, which can lead to cancer. Everyone, even healthy people, have free radicals. Your body constantly neutralizes them to keep you healthy. Smoking generates free-radicals. So giving the smokers beta-carotene alone only increased their free radical load above and beyond that already produced by smoking, and put them at greater risk for cancer. This study reinforces the rule that supplementation cannot make up for bad habits. Not smoking remains the most effective way to prevent lung cancer.

Studies suggest that a good supplement regimen includes a quality multivitamin supplement, flax seed oil, additional vitamin C and an antioxidant formula. Beyond this, seek the assistance of a practitioner skilled in nutritional medicine.

PostHeaderIcon Facts About Creatine and Its Supplements



Creatine is an organic acid which is found in the body of all human beings. Creatine supplies energy to all the muscle cells in the body.

When creatine is taken as a dietary supplement, the capacity of the body to work gets enhanced. It helps in the contraction of muscles. Most of the creatine which is stored in the bodies of the human beings comes from the food which they eat. These mainly include food like fish and meat.

Creatine mainly gets synthesized in the liver. The endogenic synthesis of creatine in the liver of the human beings helps in the normal functioning of the body.

However, there can always be deficiency in the level of creatine in the body. In order to meet up this deficiency, several creatine supplements are available in the market. These supplements at least try to bring a balance in the level of creatine in the body. Several foods can also serve as supplements of creatine in the body.

Most of the creatine supplements generally use creatine in the form of creatine bound to a water molecule. In some cases, the supplements consist of a combination of creatine and carbohydrate. This helps to enhance the rate of absorption of the creatine.

There are plenty of benefits of the creatine supplements in the body. It has been investigated that the supplements of creatine help to treat muscular, neurological as well as neuromuscular diseases. At the same time, it has also been found that creatine is mixed with some other things to make the supplements. This mixture of creatine with some other material does not bring in the same health benefits like the actual creatine which is naturally produced by the liver.

Still, when there is deficiency, it is essential to go for the supplements. However, it is always suggested to take recommendation from some Doctor before going for the supplements. A physician probably would understand the deficiencies of the body and understand what exactly the body requires.

Nutrition books are available in the recent days to make the public aware of the health benefits of the intake of several nutrients. No doubt, a daily diet should have all the necessary nutrients to ensure healthy and overall development of the body. The nutrition books provide a good guideline as to the kind of foods and their amount of intake required. These nutrition books have helped the people a lot to know and understand about nutrition.

In order to get more information about creatine and its supplements, one can look in the internet. There are different online stores which helps the people to acquire information about different kinds of supplements. Most of these supplements are available for the overall health of the human beings. Apart from the supplements, one would also get several kinds of nutrition books. Customers would also be happy to find the prices of the supplements and the nutrition books extremely reasonable and affordable in the online stores compared to the physical stores.

PostHeaderIcon Dog Food Supplement – 5 Tips to Keeping your Canine Healthy



Many dog owners wonder if using a canine supplement is a good idea. If you have a healthy dog or puppy, many experts caution against supplements. However, there can be benefits to supplements, especially if your dog is sick or has a health problem. Read on to learn tips to keeping your canine healthy.

The Power of Antioxidants. Some studies have shown that vitamins C and E can be beneficial to your sick dog and provide some protection against heart disease. These vitamins may also be helpful for a canine that suffers from allergies or is battling cancer.

If you’re considering giving your dog an antioxidant supplement, talk with you vet. They can assist you with dosage and make a brand recommendation.

The Benefits of Fish Oil. You may have heard about the health benefits of fish oil in humans, but what about your dog? Fish oil may help prevent canine diabetes, cancer and allergies. Some vets even say it can lower blood pressure and reduce the chance of blood clots.

So how do you give your dog fish oil? Talk to your vet about feeding your dog fish high in fatty acids like salmon and tuna. You can also use a supplement like flaxseed…just add a little to your dog’s food.

Reduce Joint Pain. If your dog has arthritis, you may be looking for a way to reduce his joint pain. Studies suggest that Adequan may reduce the pain of canine arthritis. This supplement is an injectable, so you should consult your vet about the appropriate dosage and how to administer.

Beware of Calcium Supplements.
We know that getting enough calcium is critical to humans, but what about dogs? Typically, your dog will get enough calcium from his regular diet. And furthermore, some studies actually show that giving your dog a calcium supplement may be harmful.

Excess calcium in dogs may be linked to disorders like hip dysplasia and wobblers syndrome. So the bottom line is stay away from the calcium supplement unless your vet specifically recommends it for your dog.

Stop the Itch. If your dog has itchy skin, talk with your vet about adding fatty acids to his diet. Some studies show a reduction in canine skin problems from adding this supplement. You can give your dog a pill or add flaxseed oil to his food. Your vet can help with dosage recommendations.

The important thing to remember about canine supplements is that they’re serious business. There isn’t any government oversight, so you want to be very careful. Never give your dog a supplement unless you run it past your vet first. Make sure to read the label closely so your dog is only getting what the vet recommended. And always watch your dog carefully to notice any responses to the supplement.

PostHeaderIcon Do You Really Need Vitamin Supplements?



Some multi-vitamins claim they contain nutrients “from A to Zinc,” but do we really need everything in between? Contrary to what the supplement aisle may lead you to believe, you only need 13 vitamins to live and function properly. Vitamins A, C, D, E, K and the B vitamins (vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, niacin, riboflavin and thiamine) account for these necessary substances. Each of the above fill specific roles and combine to provide your body with everything it needs to grow, remain healthy and renew.

Now that we know which vitamins we need, which supplement contains the magic combination? Actually, we’re meant to obtain all of our vitamins in the food that we eat. Supplement means “add to” or “accompany” and you should only use vitamin and mineral supplements under the recommendation and supervision of a doctor. However, it is good to know which vitamins do what and where they are found:

Vitamin A, also known as retinol or retinoic acid, is needed for vision, maintaining healthy skin and acts as an antioxidant. A good source of vitamin A is found in liver. Not the type to eat an animal organ? Choose an American cheese omelet. Both dairy and egg yolk are good ways of getting your fill of vitamin A.

Vitamin C, also known ascorbic acid, is another antioxidant. It also helps form your body’s connective tissue. Vitamin C is at its height of popularity around cold and flu season because of its immunity boosting properties. So, the next time you feel the urge to sneeze grab a glass of OJ. Citrus fruits are a prime Vitamin C contender. At dinner, combine some spinach, tomatoes and green peppers for a simple side salad packed with this infection fighting essential.

Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium thereby promoting bone strength and preventing diseases that weaken your bones like osteoporosis. Eating fortified milk products and saltwater fish, like grouper, mahi mahi or flounder, will ensure that you’re never lacking. Welcome news to all bronze beauties and beach bums, alike: Your body also makes Vitamin D after you have spent time in sunlight.

Vitamin E, also an antioxidant, supports blood flow and aids in the repair of body tissue. Opt for a bag of peanuts at your next baseball game and you’ll be getting your daily dose of Vitamin E. It’s also found in peas, beans and broccoli.

Thanks to vitamin K those dreaded paper cuts won’t bleed for days. It helps in the clotting process and in forming bones. Don’t feel too guilty the next time you have one too many pieces of pizza (or eat the entire pie) because the cheese and the tomato sauce both contain vitamin K.

Finally, the B vitamins:

Thiamin and riboflavin both help your body use carbohydrates and can be found in lean beef and whole-grain products. Niacin and B-6 help your body process protein and fats. Stock your kitchen with some tuna or salmon since both nutrients are found in fish. Pantothenic acid makes red blood cells while B-12 makes sure that the cells stay healthy. Folate, also considered Vitamin B-9, is an important part of production of new cells. Bioton helps your hair grow and remain strong. Both folate and biotin can be found in most greens, beans, peas and seeds.

Getting the right foods and balancing each meal ensures that you will be getting the correct amount of each of the above nutrients.

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