Best Supplements For Better Health
Some products were gifted, affiliate links throughout.
It’s 2024 and most of us should know by now that we’re not getting everything in our diet that we should be, which is fine because companies have amazing supplements and powders these days that can help boost our body in ways we might not have even known about! More information on Supplements For Better Health can be found below. Use the easy table of contents to find just what you’re looking for.
I’ve decided to try various supplements for health and to see if they actually work and do what they’re intended to do. There are so many supplements, potions and powders on the market these days that it can be a chore finding the best ones that are worth the price and finding the ones that actually work; so I did the heavy lifting for you.
Are Supplements Healthy For You?
Supplements can be beneficial for certain individuals, but their overall health impact depends on various factors, including individual health needs, dietary habits, and the quality of the supplements.
It’s important to check any supplements before taking them to insure you’re not allergic to any ingredients. Always do your homework on the company you are buying from and check several review websites to see if they’re worth the money. If you’re unsure on what supplements to take and what ones might help you, ask your doctor.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Nutrient Gaps:
- In some cases, individuals may have nutrient deficiencies due to dietary restrictions, medical conditions, or specific life stages (e.g., pregnancy, ageing). In such cases, supplements can help fill nutrient gaps.
- Dietary Intake:
- Ideally, most nutrients should come from a well-balanced and varied diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet.
- Quality Matters:
- The quality of supplements varies widely. Some supplements may contain contaminants, inaccurate dosage levels, or may not be easily absorbed by the body. It’s crucial to choose reputable brands and consult healthcare professionals for guidance.
- Individual Needs:
- Individual nutrient requirements vary. While some people may benefit from certain supplements, others may not need them and could potentially experience adverse effects if they take excessive amounts.
- Consulting Healthcare Professionals:
- Before starting any supplement regimen, it’s advisable to consult with healthcare professionals, such as doctors or registered dietitians. They can assess individual health needs and provide personalised recommendations.
- Whole Food Sources:
- Whenever possible, obtaining nutrients from whole food sources is generally preferred over supplements. Whole foods provide a complex mix of nutrients and other compounds that may have synergistic health benefits.
- Potential Risks:
- Excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals from supplements can lead to adverse effects. For example, high doses of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) can accumulate in the body and cause toxicity.
- Focus on Specific Health Goals:
- Some individuals may use supplements to address specific health goals, such as improving athletic performance, supporting joint health, or boosting immunity. It’s important to choose supplements that align with these goals and have scientific support. In cases of stomach flu where rapid rehydration and nutrient replenishment are crucial, IV therapy for stomach flu presents a direct and efficient solution, offering relief and speeding up the recovery process.
- Regulation:
- The supplement industry is not as strictly regulated as the pharmaceutical industry. While there are reputable brands, there are also products with misleading claims. Look for supplements with third-party testing or certification.
Are Supplements Good For Health?
Supplements can be beneficial for health under certain circumstances, but their use is not universally recommended for everyone.
It’s important to make sure you’re picking the best supplements for you. There are many companies that sell different supplements and it can be a little overwhelming when it comes to picking one out. One supplement I loved when trying new ones was Verve.
Verve has everything you need in one supplement. They are Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free and people who follow Paleo, Keto and vegan lifestyles. It’s low in fat, high in protein and fibre and doesn’t taste like something pulled out of the ground.
I tried a 30 servings pack which I have to say I have mixed feelings about. I had a better gut and loads more energy but can’t comment on the immunity as it was pretty much a month’s worth. That being said, considering I only took it that long and I saw improvements, I’d suggest giving it a try so that you can see if it agrees and helps you.
I also love their 100% transparency so you know what it does and what ingredients are in it. Take a look yourself on the Verve website.
Why Do We Need Health Supplements?
Health supplements are used for various reasons, and their necessity can depend on individual health needs, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors. Here are some common reasons why people might choose to use health supplements:
- Nutrient Gaps: Supplements can help fill nutrient gaps in the diet, especially for individuals who may not get enough essential vitamins and minerals from their food alone. This is particularly relevant for those with dietary restrictions or specific eating habits.
- Specific Nutrient Deficiencies: Certain populations may be at risk of specific nutrient deficiencies. For example, individuals with a lack of sun exposure may need vitamin D supplements, and those following vegetarian or vegan diets might benefit from vitamin B12 supplementation.
- Health Conditions: Some health conditions may require additional nutrients. For instance, people with malabsorption disorders, chronic diseases, or specific medical conditions may need supplements to address nutritional deficiencies.
- Pregnancy and Lactation: Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding have increased nutritional needs, and prenatal supplements are often recommended to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients for both mother and baby.
- Athletic Performance: Athletes or individuals engaging in intense physical activity may use supplements to support their performance, enhance recovery, and meet increased nutritional demands.
- Bone Health: Calcium and vitamin D supplements are commonly used to support bone health, particularly in older adults who may be at risk of osteoporosis.
- Convenience and Accessibility: In some cases, supplements can provide a convenient and accessible way to obtain specific nutrients, especially for people with busy lifestyles or limited access to certain foods.
- Supporting Specific Health Goals: Supplements may be used to address specific health goals, such as supporting immune function, improving cognitive health, or managing specific health conditions.
- Age-Related Needs: As individuals age, their nutritional needs may change. Supplements can help address age-related nutrient requirements, such as omega-3 fatty acids for cognitive health or joint supplements for mobility.
- Optimising Health and Well-Being: Some individuals use supplements as a proactive measure to optimise overall health and well-being, believing that certain nutrients may contribute to better health outcomes.
Taking supplements for health reasons is why they were invented in the first place. I will always say though, make sure you know what you’re taking and why you’re taking it.
Are Protein Supplements Good For Health?
Protein supplements can be beneficial for certain individuals, especially those with specific dietary needs, athletes, or those facing challenges meeting their protein requirements through whole foods. It is important to note that there is no such thing as magic weight loss pills which many people think protein supplements are, this just isn’t the case.
Take a look at the list below on why you should take protein powder or supplements.
1. Meeting Protein Requirements:
Protein is an essential nutrient necessary for various bodily functions, including muscle repair, immune system support, and enzyme production. Protein supplements can help individuals meet their daily protein requirements, especially if they have difficulty getting enough from food sources alone.
2. Athletes and Physical Activity:
Athletes or individuals engaging in intense physical activity may have increased protein needs to support muscle recovery and growth. Protein supplements, such as whey protein or plant-based protein powders, can be convenient sources to meet these requirements.
3. Convenience:
Protein supplements can be convenient, portable, and quick to prepare. This makes them an easy option for those with busy lifestyles or those who need a post-workout protein source on the go.
4. Dietary Restrictions:
Individuals with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians or vegans, may find it challenging to obtain sufficient protein from plant-based sources alone. Plant-based protein supplements, like pea protein or hemp protein, can help supplement their intake.
5. Medical Conditions:
Certain medical conditions or surgeries may increase protein requirements. In such cases, protein supplements may be recommended by healthcare professionals to support recovery.
6. Weight Management:
Protein can contribute to satiety and help with weight management by reducing overall calorie intake. Some people use protein supplements as part of a weight loss or muscle-building strategy.
7. Older Adults:
Older adults may face challenges in meeting their protein needs due to factors like decreased appetite or difficulty chewing. Protein supplements can be a helpful addition to their diet to support muscle mass and overall health.
8. Variety of Options:
There are various protein supplement options available, including whey, casein, soy, pea, rice, and hemp protein, providing choices based on individual preferences, dietary restrictions, and nutritional goals.
There is loads that you should consider when you try a new protein, it’s always important to do your homework on the company as well. Make sure you look at reviews for companies on multiple websites and don’t just take my word for it.
If you are looking to add more protein in to your diet, I’d recommend Pulsin. They have some amazing protein bars which I can’t get enough of and their protein powder actually tastes decent, unlike other protein powders I’ve tried in the past which leaves a chalky taste in your mouth.
Remember, there is no such thing as weight loss pills. Just better diets, protein intake and calories burnt. If you’re looking to lose weight, eat in moderation and use apps like MyFitnessPal to log what you eat and how many calories are in each.
Protein Considerations:
Whole Foods Are Ideal: While protein supplements can be useful, it’s generally recommended to obtain nutrients from whole food sources. Whole foods provide a variety of nutrients and other compounds that contribute to overall health.
Quality Matters: The quality of protein supplements can vary. Choose reputable brands, and consider factors such as protein content, added ingredients, and third-party testing for quality.
Individual Needs: Protein requirements vary among individuals based on factors such as age, weight, activity level, and health goals. It’s advisable to consult with healthcare professionals or registered dieticians to determine individual protein needs.
Potential for Overconsumption: Excessive protein intake from supplements may not be necessary for everyone and could have potential risks. It’s important to balance protein intake with overall dietary needs.
Are Vitamins Good For Health?
It depends on what vitamins you are taking but generally vitamins are good for your health if used correctly.
It’s important to take the right dose and not exceed that amount. Ensure you know what vitamins you’re taking and why and if you have any concerns then it’s important to reach out to your medical professional.
Are Probiotics Good For Health?
Probiotics are live microorganisms, mainly bacteria and yeast, that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They are often referred to as “good” or “friendly” bacteria and are known for their positive effects on the digestive system.
- Gut Health: Probiotics are most well-known for their positive impact on gut health. They help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful ones.
- Digestive Disorders: Probiotics may be beneficial in managing certain digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), and diarrhoea. They can help alleviate symptoms and improve gut function.
- Immune System Support: The gut is a significant part of the immune system, and a healthy balance of gut bacteria is linked to better immune function. Probiotics may contribute to immune system support by promoting a balanced gut microbiome.
- Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhoea: Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to conditions like antibiotic-associated diarrhoea. Probiotics may help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut during and after antibiotic treatment.
- Vaginal Health: Probiotics can contribute to maintaining a healthy balance of microorganisms in the vaginal area, potentially preventing or alleviating issues like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
- Mental Health: There is emerging research suggesting a link between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. Some studies suggest that probiotics may have a role in promoting mental well-being and managing conditions like anxiety and depression.
- Allergies and Eczema: Some research suggests that early exposure to probiotics, either during pregnancy or infancy, may reduce the risk of allergies and eczema in children.
- Oral Health: Probiotics may contribute to oral health by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth. They may help reduce the risk of conditions like gingivitis and bad breath.
If you’re looking for some decent probiotics then I would suggest BioGaia which I’ve been using. If you know me you’ll know that I have several health conditions and that’s why I have to take probiotics for my gut health.
I take both the BioGaia Gastrus tables and the BioGaia Protectis tables with Vitamin D included to maintain my gut health. They are both designed to support gut health, BioGaia has over 30 years of experience and research so they know what they’re talking about and they actually help out quite a bit.
What Supplements Are Best For The Body
Now it would be easy for me to tell you exactly what you should be taking for everything but I’m not a genius and I’m not a dietician or doctor so anything I give here is my own opinion and not medical fact. I’ve said it time and time again, don’t take my word for it and make sure you look around at reviews before buying.
Below are some of the reasons you might be taking supplements and the different suggestions I have based on what supplements I’ve taken in the past and present. Have any suggestions for me? Let me know in the commend or send me a message and I’ll check them out.
What Supplements For Healthy Hair?
Several supplements may contribute to promoting healthy hair growth and maintaining the overall health of your hair. Keep in mind that individual responses to supplements can vary, and it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding new supplements to your routine.
What Supplements For Healthy Skin?
Several supplements are believed to contribute to healthy skin by providing essential nutrients that support its structure, hydration, and overall well-being. However, it’s important to remember that a balanced diet and good skincare practices are also crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Before incorporating supplements into your routine, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.
Warrior Collagen Peptides
If you’re looking to take care of your hair, skin and nails then collagen can be one of the best things to take. They’re affordable, don’t taste disgusting and they can be used by various people due to the fact they are free from most allergens!
Warrior Collagen Peptides, now available in a convenient 180g size. Crafted from premium bovine collagen, the peptides are designed to support healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints as part of your daily routine. The product is gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo-friendly, catering to various dietary preferences. Each serving delivers 12 grams of collagen peptides, which are readily absorbed by the body for optimal results. With an unflavoured formula, the peptides seamlessly blend into any beverage or recipe without altering its taste.
What Supplements For Healthy Nails?
Several supplements are associated with promoting healthy nails by providing essential nutrients that support nail strength, growth, and overall health. Keep in mind that individual responses to supplements can vary, and it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding new supplements to your routine.
Superdrugs All Round Vitamins
If you’re looking for a more affordable way to protect your hair, skin and nails for longer periods of time, I would suggest taking a look at Superdrugs. I know most people associate cheaper products with not doing that well but it’s just not the case.
I’ve used Superdrug products such as these vitamins and I’ve seen improvments. Due to their price range it also means you can take them for longer and you don’t have to stop them as they aren’t affordable. Their Vitamin E works well for hair skin and nails if you really want to target that area, although be sure to take a look at their entire range.
What supplements For Tiredness & Fatigue?
There are supplements that are believed to contribute to the bodies functioning and can help reduce tiredness and fatigue over the course of the day. These supplements are key to anyone who has a busy lifestyle or works long hours.
BlueIron
BlueIron is full of blueberry juice which makes sure there’s a great taste with this Iron supplement. BlueIron is designed to reduce tiredness and fatigue over the course of the day and it’s perfect for people who have morning gym sessions!
What Supplements For Gut Health?
There are several supplements that can help promote gut health. If you’re looking to take some I would suggest probiotics as they are packed full of healthy bacteria that do their job easily. It’s important to go with a company that has experience in this field, such as BioGaia which I take who uses over 30 years of experience research in their products.
Gut health is so important when you’re getting older and that sucks. Remember the days when you could just worry about if your butt looked big in something? Well not anymore, thankfully I’ve tried some amazing products that have helped my gut health and I wanted to share them, my only problem is remembering to take them regularly!
Wassen Digest + Balance
These sachets from Wassen are the perfect solution for people who want to look after their guts on the go. They are a blend of minerals, digestive enzymes and live bacterial strains that help refresh your digestive health and they work nice and fast.
These are perfect if you’re always on the go and don’t have time to sort out your pills each day. Slip one of these in your water bottle and drink up. That way you don’t have to even think about it and you’ll get everything you need over the course of the day!
Teff Cookies
Sometimes getting enough fibre in your diet can be extremley boring and nobody has the will power to only eat bran flakes every morning for breakfast! Thankfully these delicious Teff cookies are high in fibre, plant based, gluten free and don’t have artificial flavourings or ingredients in them.
They’re made to be yummy and good for your gut at the same time. They have four different flavours and personally I love the chocolate orange ones myself. They’re easy for on the go or a quick snack when you’re busy at work and well worth trying if you need more fibre in your diet to look after your gut!
Bio-Kurt Everyday
Bio-Kult Everyday is scientifically formulated to support digestive health. The advanced blend includes 14 live bacterial strains designed to enhance your gut flora and promote better digestion, making everyday life a little easier to digest.
Each capsule contains: 2 billion live bacterial microorganisms, it comes as as pill so you don’t have to worry about the flavour and its’ a fast and effective way to take care of your gut and digestion! Shop the entire range on the Bio-Kurt website!
Supplements For Healthy Joints And Muscles
Maintaining joint and muscle health involves a combination of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and, in some cases, the use of dietary supplements. There are various options that you can go with when it comes to supporting your joints and muscles and it’s recommended that if you play in any sports or exercise regular you should be looking at including these into your daily routine.
Here are some supplements commonly considered beneficial for joint and muscle health;
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Source: Fish oil, flaxseed oil, chia seeds.
Benefits: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint pain and stiffness - Glucosamine and Chondroitin:
Source: Often derived from shellfish.
Benefits: These compounds are components of cartilage and may help support joint health. Some studies suggest that they can alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis. - Vitamin D:
Source: Sunlight, fatty fish, fortified foods, supplements.
Benefits: Essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to joint and muscle pain. - Calcium:
Source: Dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods, supplements.
Benefits: Important for bone health and muscle function. Adequate calcium intake can contribute to overall musculoskeletal health. - Magnesium:
Source: Nuts, seeds, leafy greens, whole grains, supplements.
Benefits: Plays a crucial role in muscle function and may help reduce muscle cramps. - Turmeric/Curcumin:
Source: Turmeric spice, curcumin supplements.
Benefits: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate joint pain and stiffness. - Protein:
Source: Meat, poultry, fish, dairy, legumes, supplements.
Benefits: Protein is essential for muscle repair and maintenance. Athletes and those engaging in regular exercise may benefit from sufficient protein intake. - Vitamin C:
Source: Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, supplements.
Benefits: Important for collagen synthesis, which is crucial for joint and connective tissue health.
Although all suggestions are great, these might not always be in your diet which is why it’s then important to take supplements. For example you might not be getting protein in your diet enough as you’re vegetarian/vegan.
Myself, I don’t have enough Calcium or Vitamin C in my diet which is why I take a supplement to make up for this. I use GOPO Joint Health which are capsules that contain Vitamin C which helps me get the nutrients my body needs without eating foods I don’t like.
They are one of the mid priced supplements on the market for joint health and personally I have a damaged ankle so taking these while walking the dog every day has helped a bunch and my pup is happy he gets more walks. You can factor different foods into your diet to help your joints and muscles as well but with the cost of everything going up, for me at least it’s easier and cheaper to take supplements.
Best Supplements To Lose Weight?
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, there is no such thing as weight loss pills no matter how someone packages it. Most of the pills and potions on the market are some form of laxative and don’t even get me started on what Pyramid Scheme products are out there claiming to make you lose weight with their products, there was literally one company that sold you mud!
Taking supplements for health is great, they allow you to get your daily intake of nutrients you wouldn’t normally get and they target areas you might want to work on. However, there is no weight loss cure. If you’re interested though I’d suggest taking a look at my Easy Ways To Lose Weight At Home Without Spending Loads Of Money article and following a calorie controlled diet.
Best Menopause Supplements
Menopause supplements are often taken to help alleviate the symptoms associated with menopause and to support overall health and well-being during this transitional phase of life. Here are some reasons why women may choose to take menopause supplements;
- Symptom Relief: Menopause can bring about a variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, insomnia, joint pain, and fatigue. Supplements may help alleviate these symptoms and improve quality of life for menopausal women.
- Hormonal Balance: During menopause, estrogen levels decline, which can lead to hormonal imbalances and associated symptoms. Some supplements, such as black cohosh and soy isoflavones, have estrogen-like effects and may help restore hormonal balance.
- Bone Health: Declining estrogen levels during menopause can increase the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Calcium and vitamin D supplements are commonly recommended to support bone health and reduce the risk of bone loss and fractures.
- Heart Health: Estrogen plays a protective role in heart health, and its decline during menopause may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Omega-3 fatty acids and other heart-healthy supplements may help support cardiovascular health during menopause.
- Mood and Emotional Well-being: Menopause can be a time of emotional upheaval, with mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression being common symptoms. Certain supplements, such as magnesium and vitamin E, may help support mood stability and emotional well-being during menopause.
- Sleep Support: Insomnia and sleep disturbances are common during menopause, often due to hormonal changes and night sweats. Supplements such as magnesium and melatonin may help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
- Overall Health and Vitality: Menopause is a time of transition, and supporting overall health and vitality is important for women as they navigate this phase of life. Supplements containing a combination of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and botanical extracts may help support overall health and well-being during menopause.
Reviveactive Meno Active & Beauty Complex
Meno Active, a revolutionary menopause support supplement meticulously crafted with a potent blend of 31 active ingredients. This scientifically formulated mix comprises 12 vitamins, 7 minerals, 4 plant extracts, 4 digestive enzymes, 3 strains of live friendly bacteria, and 350mg of Omega 3 DHA.
Tailored to assist women throughout their menopausal journey, whether they’re in perimenopause, menopause, or postmenopause. The Meno Active supports hormonal activity, energy levels, brain function and the nervious system.
Beauty Complex, a powerhouse supplement that goes beyond traditional collagen formulations. With 8 active ingredients working synergistically, Beauty Complex is designed to rejuvenate and enhance hair, skin, and nails from within.
Crafted by experts, Beauty Complex addresses the natural decline of essential components like collagen, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid in the body. Ideal for those seeking to elevate their beauty regimen and fortify their hair, skin, and nails.
The beauty complex from Reviveactive are perfect to take during menopause to help support the body and ensuring you look and feel good during a rough time.
Is It Safe To Take Supplements Everyday?
In general, taking supplements every day can be safe and beneficial, but it depends on various factors including the type of supplement, dosage, individual health status, and specific dietary needs.
Personally, in my unprofessional opinion I would say that yes it is safe to take supplements daily although make sure you use them. You don’t want to be taking 10 different tablets each morning and then adding protein powder to your drinks. If you can find a supplement that does everything you need, just take the one. If you have to take three supplements to target various areas of your body, do that. Don’t take supplements just for the sake of taking them.
If you’re looking for an all rounder supplement I would advise using Sunrider Quinary. The Quinary blends in 5 of the Sunrider supplements naming this a “super Supplement”. The supplement targets the immune, circulatory, digestive, endocrine, and respiratory systems while promoting good health.
Make sure you check the ingredients to make sure the Sunrider Quinary is right for you, if you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out to them or ask your medical professional. They are on the higher end of the market with their price point but it’s worth only taking one supplement a day instead of 5 and it’ll work out cheaper in the long run.