Supplements are everywhere. With so many supplements available at your grocery store and online, how do you know which ones are the most beneficial for your body? It is difficult to find a definitive list of necessary supplements. Of course, it is ideal to get most of your vitamins, minerals, and general nutrition from food, but oftentimes we need more of a boost—especially if we are deficient or facing a chronic condition. Below we have created a list of the five most essential supplements to prevent nutrient deficiencies. These five essential supplements are often hard to get enough of through diet alone, so this is the perfect roadmap for you if you are unsure where to get started!
1. Vitamin D
Vitamin D ideally comes from the sun’s rays. However, many of us live in climates that don’t offer as much daily sunshine, or we are protecting ourselves from the harmful sunrise with sunscreen and not absorbing enough of the necessary Vitamin D. A Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a large range of chronic health conditions, including a weakening of the bones. A study by PLOSOne shows that Vitamin D supplements have been linked to reduced mortality rates as well. Vitamin D also works hand in hand with Calcium to help build strong bones, so strive to eat a lot of calcium-rich foods if you are seeking to prevent bone-loss.
2. Fish Oil
A Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil is one of the most sought-after supplements on the market. It has been said that fish oil has the capability to support your brain and cardiovascular system, as well as lower triglyceride levels and support skin health, along with a wide range of other benefits. If you are not a regular fish-eater, a fish oil supplement may be exactly what you need!
3. B Vitamins
B Vitamins are essential to your body’s overall health and wellness. Those who are not vegan or vegetarian are often able to get these vitamins easily through foods. However, if you are vegan or vegetarian, you may need a B supplement such as B12 to eliminate symptoms of chronic fatigue or weakness.
4. Probiotics
If you are presently or have in the past faced digestive issues, a probiotic will help you rebuild and repair your gut. There are many probiotics on the market and finding one with many different strains and sources of the strains is ideal to repopulate your gut’s microbiome. You may also choose to eat more yogurt or cultured products instead of probiotics for a similar benefit.
5. Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential nutrient that many of us do not get enough of. A deficiency in magnesium can lead to a wide range of issues from digestive stagnation to heart disease, intense migraines, diabetes, and bone-related diseases.
We hope you have found some useful information in regards to essential supplements to avoid nutrient deficiencies. It is important to do your research when choosing a supplement for you. We strongly recommend working with a functional medicine doctor so that you are providing your body with the supplement and dosages that you need.
