Most people want to improve their health, particularly if they can do it easily. Since the way modern food is processed can destroy nutrients, many people choose to supplement their diets by taking vitamin pills. What are the best vitamin supplements to maximize health? Here is a suggested list.
Always consult your physician before you start taking vitamins. Your medical advisor is the only person who can determine what the best vitamin supplements and dosages are for you.
The basics
A multivitamin tablet is a great foundation when looking for the best vitamin supplements. It will contain some of all the basic vitamins and minerals you need and in some cases, a full dose. For example, the amount of Vitamin A in multivitamins is plenty and a separate Vitamin A tablet won't be needed.
Vitamin B complex, which includes 11 different B vitamins, contributes to the health of the nervous system. It is beneficial for medication overuse, alcoholism or recovery from a serious illness. B vitamins assist in reducing the effects of stress and support the adrenal glands. They aid in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are essential for the health of your skin, hair, eyes, mouth and liver.
Vitamin B-3 is also known as niacin or niacinamide. It helps maintain healthy functioning of the nervous system, digestive system and skin.
Vitamin B-6 combats carpal tunnel syndrome, joint pain, trigger finger, sensitivity to bright light, burning or tingling in the extremities and inability to recall dreams. It works in combination with magnesium and zinc.
Vitamin B-12 is used as a tonic. It assists in the conversion of iron to hemoglobin in the blood, helps normalize hormone production and increases short-term memory in the elderly. It also contributes to nervous system health.
Folic acid is an essential B vitamin that promotes heart health. Pregnant women need ample supplies of folic acid to reduce the risk of serious birth defects in their babies.
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant. It reacts with free radicals in the bloodstream to combat cell damage, so it can be considered a cancer fighter. It is important in immune system health and collagen formation. Some people believe high doses of vitamin C can help fight colds, but research to support this is mixed. It is present in citrus fruit and prevents scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency.
Vitamin D helps promote healthy bones, largely by helping the body absorb calcium. Vitamin D can reduce the risk of diabetes, heart attack, muscle and bone pain, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and cancers of the breast, colon, prostate, ovaries, esophagus and lymphatic system. It may also help lower blood pressure. It stimulates the pancreas to make insulin and regulates the immune system.
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that fights free radicals whose accumulation can lead to premature cell aging. In addition, vitamin E enhances immune response, which is beneficial in preventing and fighting cancer. Studies suggest it may reduce the risk of prostate cancer. It was formerly believed that Vitamin E helped reduce the risk of heart attack, but recent studies suggest it may increase that risk.
Calcium is necessary for bone maintenance and assists in muscle contraction and nerve function. It may also help prevent colon cancer.
Magnesium works with calcium to build bones. It helps keep muscles strong and nerves alert, as well as helping protect the heart from the stress of exercise. It may also protect against type two diabetes.
Optional extras
Beta carotene supplements the activity of vitamin A. It is a powerful antioxidant and immune system enhancer.
Chromium picolinate stabilizes blood sugar and may promote weight loss as part of a balanced diet and exercise regimen. It can also be used for body building, decreased and increased blood sugar levels and morning sickness.
Coenzyme Q10 is a major antioxidant used in the transfer of cellular respiration inside the inner mitochondrial membranes of the body's cells. It supports heart health.
Lutein promotes eye health. It may protect against aging related eye diseases, including macular degeneration and cataracts.
Selenium binds with heavy metals and helps the body get rid of them. It supports the immune system and may protect against some forms of cancer.
Zinc is another antioxidant supplement believed to be helpful in shortening the duration of colds. People with zinc deficiency may have significantly higher glucose levels and lower insulin levels than similar patients without normal zinc levels.
If you are experiencing health problems, do some research on the Internet to find what the best vitamin supplements are for your condition. People who prefer to avoid taking prescription drugs may be able to find solutions by selecting the best vitamin supplements supported by research studies.