What are Supplements and How Can They Help You?

This advice is general and does not equate to specific individual professional advice. We recommend a consultation with a healthcare professional, who can assess your overall health before you start using any type of supplement. 

What are Supplements?

Supplements are manufactured products that are intended to be added to your diet to improve nutrition. They are typically taken in capsule, tablet, powder, or liquid format. They can provide essential nutrients to the body, such as vitamins, minerals, fibre, fatty acids, proteins, and amino acids. 

Supplements can be used to help your overall wellbeing and day-to-day life, as well as helping you reach your fitness and exercise goals. They can be grouped into two categories: dietary and sport.

How do Supplements Work?

Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements are intended to be consumed as a source of nutrients to address either a known deficiency or, more often, establish a consistent intake of certain amounts of nutrients. Ideally, we get all the nutrients, vitamins, minerals, fibre, fatty acids, proteins and amino acids from the foods we eat; however, this is not often the case. 

Supplements work by providing your body with a measured, concentrated amount that can easily be broken down beneficially by the body. It is recommended that you see your doctor or pharmacist before taking any dietary supplements.  

Sports Supplements

Sports or workout supplements may be used to enhance exercise performance for high-intensity or strenuous physical activity. All sports supplements are dietary supplements; however, the formulations are chosen to provide your body with specific nutrients so you can perform optimally. Sports supplements can be taken to help with recovery or to prepare the body for upcoming physical activity. More information about sports supplements can be found here.

Top 4 Benefits of Taking Supplements

1. Maintain or improve your health

Studies show that more and more people have diets that are lacking in many vitamins and minerals. Supplements can be taken to provide your body with all the nutrients needed and are convenient, especially for people who live fast-paced, busy lives. Having a balanced level of key nutrients in your body can help you gain more energy, improve your mood, decrease stress, and improve your immune system to prevent the risk of illnesses and diseases.

2. They make it easier for you to maintain your weight

By taking supplements that include vitamins, minerals, fibre, and fatty acids which your body may be lacking, supplements can help to maintain proper hormonal balances in your body resulting in reduced fluctuation of your weight. 

3. Improved cognitive ability 

Your brain needs ample amounts of vitamins and minerals to function properly. Consuming the recommended amount can have a large effect on your cognitive functions such as memory, vision, and problem-solving abilities. Consuming the correct amounts of nutrients daily can positively affect daily activities at work, home, and leisure, especially as you start to age. 

4. Enhanced athletic performance

If you work out or exercise to stay in good shape and lead a healthy life, ensuring you have proper nutrition allows you to get the most out of your exercise routine. Your wellbeing can be significantly improved, and seeing your physical self improve may also improve your mental health. If you take part in athletic competitions, supplements can assist your body in healing, as well as in its preparation for high-intensity or strenuous activities. 

Top Supplements for a Healthy Life

Common supplements that may benefit your health include:

• Vitamin B12, which can help keep nerve and blood cells healthy, make DNA and prevent anaemia
• Folic acid, which can reduce birth defects when taken by pregnant women
• Vitamin D, which can strengthen bones
• Calcium, which can promote bone health
• Vitamins C and E, which can prevent cell damage
• Fish oil, containing omega-3s like DHA and EPA which can support heart health & has natural anti-inflammatory effects
• Curcumin is an antioxidant and has natural anti-inflammatory effects
• Vitamin A, which can slow down vision loss from age-related macular degeneration
• Zinc, which can promote skin health and slow down vision loss from age-related macular degeneration
• Melatonin, which can help counteract jet lag. New studies have shown that outside of jet lag, melatonin can have negative effects on sleep.
• Magnesium is an important electrolyte aiding in hydration. It is also important for physical activities to prevent dehydration and cramps from sweat loss.
• Protein powder, which aids in muscle recovery 
• Creatine monohydrate, which helps users gain strength and increase muscle volume

The information above does not constitute medical advice and we recommend you consult a health care professional before starting use of any supplements. 

For a comprehensive breakdown of vitamins and minerals read here. 

Should I Be Taking Supplements?

That decision is ultimately up to you. 

We highly recommend speaking to a healthcare professional before taking any new supplements as this blog does not constitute medical advice, however, when used in addition to a healthy diet and active, physical lifestyle, they can be used to optimise your body functions and improve your health and wellbeing. 

Supplements work best when you lead a healthy life, including eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. City Physio can help you with maintaining an exercise plan, either after you suffer from an injury or if you just simply don’t know where to start. If you suffer an injury, City Physio is here for you to get you back on track in no time. 

About City Physio

At City Physio Adelaide, we want to see our patients reach their health and wellbeing goals in all areas of life. We encourage not only a positive exercise regime that suits your lifestyle but promoting positive all-around wellbeing. 

When you are thriving, we are thriving. We see patients of all ages, levels of ability, and fitness. We are committed to seeing you get back on track and will look after you during your journey to wellness. 

Book an appointment now!

Our team at City Physiotherapy are more than ready to help you alleviate any you do have and prevent future injuries from arising. Do not hesitate to book an appointment; Call our friendly reception on 8212 4886 or click the book online button below for a same-day appointment.

References: 

How Do Vitamins Work? | Centrum AU

Workout Supplements | The Nutrition Source | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Vitamins and minerals – Better Health Channel

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