Many people take multivitamins, calcium or fish oil to help ensure that they get the essential vitamins they need. That said, the majority of people aren’t aware that there are some other supplements and foods out there that may even more beneficial to the body.
Here are seven healthful natural supplements and the foods they come in that you might want to consider adding to your daily routine.
1. Choline
Choline promotes health in the nervous system and helps to prevent fatty liver. It increases dopamine production, which provides a host of benefits including an overall decrease in appetite. Choline is found in eggs, chicken and fish.
CDP-choline supplements are an effective way to make sure your body is getting enough choline. Those who have diabetes or struggle with depression should consult a doctor before taking choline supplements.
2. Refined Coconut Oil
Refined coconut oil has a wide range of benefits. It helps maintain a healthy level of cholesterol, fights heart disease and lowers blood pressure. It wards off some of the deadliest diseases, including cancer and diabetes. It strengthens bones and even promotes weight loss.
Coconut oil is especially effective in promoting healthy skin and hair. It is sometimes used as a massage oil and moisturizer. It prevents flaking and can help ward off wrinkles and saggy skin. It is very popular in India because it gives hair a shiny, healthy quality.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries are a great source of fiber and health-promoting compounds. They contain a lot of anthocyanin, which provides a lot of cognitive benefits which are particularly useful for the elderly.
The best thing about blueberries is that they are a naturally-occurring vitamin carrier. You can eat them on their own or drink them in juice form. Consuming less than a cup each day is enough to gain beneficial effects.
4. Iodine
Iodine is a mineral found in fish that helps the body synthesize hormones. Iodine helps maintain a healthy thyroid and reduces general aches and pains in the body. Iodine also improves cognition and balances hormones.
An Iodine deficiency is a bad thing. Low Iodine levels can cause an under-active thyroid, which means that the entire body’s metabolism is running sluggish.
Too much iodine can be bad for you, so be sure to follow the recommended daily dose if you are taking it in supplement form.
5. Berberine
Berberine originates from plants and is used in Chinese medicine. It is effective in supplementing diabetes treatments because it promotes blood sugar response. It also helps maintain a healthy cholesterol level.
Berberine is a fantastic supplement for those who are overweight and are dealing with common side effects of obesity and it can be a terrific first step to getting in shape. Be careful when first taking it, as too much berberine can cause an upset stomach. It is generally best to start at a low dose and slowly add more as your body adjusts. Berberine doesn’t appear naturally in a lot of foods that people typically eat, but can be found in the European Barberry, the Oregon Grape, and multiple types of roots.
6. Garlic
Garlic is absolutely overloaded with health benefits. It can help maintain blood pressure and cholesterol levels while promoting blood flow and supporting the immune system. Some studies have shown that garlic assists in weight loss by transforming white fat into brown fat.
A study conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Center has shown evidence that garlic fights health disease, the common cold and cancer. It may also help men who have an enlarged prostate.
At least 4 garlic cloves should be taken every day to get the minimum expected benefit. Make sure not to microwave it as that can damage allicin, which is believed to be the compound that makes garlic so healthy in the first place.
Some people prefer to take aged garlic, because it has a less potent scent.
7. Vitamin B
Vitamin B is a nutrient that is essential for the nervous system. It is found in green vegetables, whole grains, milk and meat.
Studies have shown that taking vitamin B for six months or longer will reduce the risk of having a stroke. It also helps to prevent Alzheimer’s and other age-related brain effects. Vitamin B keeps bones strong, reduces the risk of cataracts, boosts energy and can help fight depression as it aids in the formation of serotonin.
Photo by Wiki Commons
David Glennhas lived his entire life in the beautiful state of Utah. He was fortunate enough to be successful in the residential construction market and was able to retire. He has been a contributor to Vivint and SmartHome USA. Follow David on Twitter at @DavidGlenn97, and read all of his MOTHER EARTH NEWS postshere.
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