Supplements are a hot debate. Some people are for them, some against. You should really be getting all the vitamins, minerals and nutrients you need from your regular diet and only supplementing if there is a deficiency, or, in my case, if you are very active and need or want a little extra. I can neither support nor disprove the addition of supplements to your health and wellness plan. I can only tell you works for me. I encourage you to do your own research and talk to your doctor before you take anything. That way you can draw your own conclusions and decide for yourself. The following supplements are what I take on a regular basis, why I take them and why they may be beneficial.
*Click on the supplement for more info.
Magnesium is an important mineral, playing a role in over 300 enzyme reactions in the human body. Its many functions include helping with muscle and nerve function, regulating blood pressure, and supporting the immune system.
I take magnesium to help with muscle soreness, insomnia, and bone health.
Glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate are naturally occurring substances found in the connective tissues of the body, including the cartilage that covers the ends of bones in the joints. Glucosamine sulfate functions are the primary building block for proteoglycans, large molecules in cartilage that give it viscoelastic (buffering) properties. When taken orally, glucosamine sulfate is absorbed readily into the system and can be traced to cartilage as soon as four hours after consumption.
Similar to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucosamine sulfate has been shown to have unique anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, in some laboratory tests, the glucosamine supplement demonstrated a protective effect on the cartilage as well. These studies suggest that glucosamine sulfate may inhibit the breakdown of cartilage associated with osteoarthritis and may have the potential to help build-up cartilage. It has also been shown to help manage joint distress from running, promotes cartilage & joint recovery, increased joint mobility & flexibility.
I take this because I run on a regular basis and am all about anything that can help protect my joints. The anti-inflammatory benefit is also a plus.
*Don’t take if you have an allergy to shellfish.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that everyone eats fish (particularly fatty, cold-water fish) at least twice a week. I don’t eat fish, but I do understand the benefits of having a bountiful amount of fish in your diet, so I take fish oil to still get those benefits.
I take fish oil for my skin, my heart health, to combat anxiety and for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Supplementing a diet and exercise program with at least 3,400mg of CLA isomers from Clarinol daily has been clinically proven to improve body composition. It has been scientifically shown to improve lean muscle tone, enhance diet and support metabolism.
I take CLA to aid in muscle definition and performance.
Very active people tend to be more commonly prone to iron deficiency. An iron deficiency can lead to fatigue, a decline in performance, and anemia (especially in athletes), among other issues.
I am very sensitive to iron, as in pure form it causes nausea in me. This is the only pill form of iron I’ve been able to take with no problem.
I take iron to ward off fatigue and to prevent anemia.
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